The Myth of Virginity: How a Dangerous Tradition Still Controls Women’s Lives

Why Virginity Testing Is a Cruel and Outdated Practice That Needs to End

For centuries, a woman’s worth has been tied to an invisible, unproven concept — virginity. In many cultures, a woman’s purity is considered more valuable than her intelligence, kindness, or personal achievements.

This belief has led to horrific traditions, including virginity testing, a degrading and invasive practice that falsely claims to determine whether a woman has had sexual intercourse before marriage.

Virginity testing is unscientific, unethical, and deeply harmful, yet it remains widespread in many parts of the world. Women who “fail” these tests can face devastating consequences — from social rejection to extreme violence and even death.

Despite growing awareness and calls for a ban, millions of women continue to suffer because of a cultural myth that refuses to die. But why does this injustice persist, and what can be done to stop it?

A Wedding That Ended in Tragedy

I once knew a girl named Lina. She was breathtakingly beautiful, with golden hair, rosy cheeks, and a warm smile that lit up any room.