The Swedish government plans to criminalise virginity tests, which involve a doctor confirming that a woman has not had sexual intercourse, to protect women and girls from honour-related violence.
A virginity test is an unscientific method claiming to determine whether a woman has had sexual intercourse by examining whether the hymen is intact; sometimes, the hymen is even surgically "restored."
Experts assert these tests are baseless and represent an infringement on sexual integrity.
Sweden intends to criminalise both issuing certificates and performing the related surgeries, allowing for the prosecution of offenders, according to the Swedish social service, although currently only healthcare professionals face disciplinary actions.
A government report indicates these practices are rarely reported in Sweden, though some women undergo such tests or surgeries abroad, often linked to a culture of gender and honour-related violence.
“Honour-related violence is often collective, as a woman’s sexuality is seen as affecting the entire family,” stated Swedish Equalities Minister Nina Larsson at a press conference; the proposed legal amendments are planned to come into effect on 1 December 2025.
In our country, virginity tests are not prohibited; in 2019, the Order of Physicians urged doctors to stop participating in such practices. Hospitals in Antwerp and Brussels occasionally receive requests for virginity certificates.
Since 2021, it has been illegal in France for healthcare workers to issue virginity certificates, with doctors facing up to a year in prison and a €15,000 fine. In the United Kingdom, the practice has been punishable by up to five years in prison since 2022.
