Jordanians insisting on examining brides' hymens

Islam Online (Arabic) has a story saying that in the past year in Jordan, potential in-laws have forced some 1200 prospective brides to undergo a "virginity exam" - and have the doctor report the results back to them.

A number of doctors and clerics are sharply critical of this system, saying that it is an unacceptable breach of women's dignity.

In some Arab countries, women undergo surgery to restore the appearance of virginity - and not doing so could cause them to be victims of "honor killings."