Abstract

"Blood stained bed sheets" is considered as an index of virginity for the brides in most areas of Iran. The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of bleeding at the first intercourse in brides who claimed to be virgin in Kerman city, Kerman province, Iran. Practices of the grooms encountering lack of bleeding were investigated. Totally, 52.5% of the brides reported bleeding at the first penile-vaginal intercourse. Among the grooms who encountered no bleeding at the first intercourse, half of them had a violent reaction. Findings of the study revealed that valuing bleeding as a virginity index will damage the couple's relationship and sexual life of young brides, highlighting the need for more attention and education.