Orgasm 22546 225479539 2008-07-13T22:25:28Z Atomaton 1217613 /* See also */ Red link -- fixed to new name {{other uses}} An '''orgasm''' (sexual climax) is the conclusion of the [[Human sexual response cycle#Plateau phase|plateau phase]] of the [[Human sexual response cycle|sexual response cycle]], and may be experienced by both males and females. Orgasm is characterized by intense physical pleasure, controlled by the involuntary, or autonomic, nervous system.<ref>[http://www.christianitytoday.com/mp/2001/004/3.36.html What Every Woman Needs to Know About Sexual Satisfaction - Marriage<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> It is accompanied by quick cycles of [[muscle contraction]] in the lower [[pelvis|pelvic muscles]], which surround the primary [[sexual organ]]s and the [[anus]]. Orgasms are often associated with other involuntary actions, including muscular [[spasm]]s in other areas of the body, a general [[Euphoria (emotion)|euphoric]] sensation, and frequently, [[Manner of articulation|vocalization]]s. After orgasm, humans often feel tired and a need to rest. This is attributed to the release of [[prolactin]].<ref>{{cite journal | author=Exton, MS | coauthors=et al. | year=2001 | month=April | title=Coitus-induced orgasm stimulates prolactin secretion in healthy subjects | journal=Psychoneuroendocrinology | volume=26 | issue=3 | pages=287 – 94 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=11166491&query_hl=1&itool=pubmed_docsum | accessdate=2006-05-28 | doi = 10.1016/S0306-4530(00)00053-6 <!--Retrieved from CrossRef by DOI bot-->}}</ref> Prolactin is a typical [[neuroendocrine]] response in depressed mood and irritation.<ref>{{cite journal | author=Sobrinho, LG | year=2003 | title=Prolactin, psychological stress and environment in humans: adaptation and maladaptation | journal=Pituitary | volume=6 | issue=1 | pages=35 – 9 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=14674722&query_hl=2&itool=pubmed_docsum | accessdate=2006-05-28 | doi = 10.1023/A:1026229810876 <!--Retrieved from CrossRef by DOI bot-->}}</ref> Ongoing research at the University Medical Center of [[Groningen (city)|Groningen]], the [[Netherlands]], studies brain events that accompany orgasm in men and women. Techniques used involve [[Positron Emission Tomography]] ([[PET]]) and [[fMRI]]. Male and female brains act almost the same during orgasm. Brain scans showed that large parts of the [[cerebral cortex]] temporarily reduced their activity.<ref>{{cite journal |author=Georgiadis J, Kortekaas R, Kuipers R, Nieuwenburg A, Pruim J, Reinders A, Holstege G |title=Regional cerebral blood flow changes associated with clitorally induced orgasm in healthy women |journal=Eur J Neurosci |volume=24 |issue=11 |pages=3305–16 |year=2006 |pmid=17156391 | doi = 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.05206.x <!--Retrieved from CrossRef by DOI bot-->}}</ref> ==Achieving orgasm== One of the main ways of achieving orgasm is by direct or indirect stimulation of the [[penis]] or [[clitoris]]. Such stimulation can come from a variety of activities, including but not limited to [[sexual intercourse]], manual [[masturbation]], [[anal sex]], [[oral sex]], [[non-penetrative sex]], a [[vibrator (sensual)|sensual vibrator]], or an [[erotic electrostimulation]]. Orgasm may also be achieved by stimulation of the [[nipples]] or other [[erogenous zone]]s. In the absence of physical stimulation, orgasm can be from psychological arousal alone, or during [[dreaming]] (a [[nocturnal emission]] or "[[wet dream]]" in males). Important in sexual stimulation are internal glands, called the [[Skene's glands]] in women and the [[prostate]] in men, two [[homologous]] structures. In common use, the term [[G-spot]] refers to these areas. The stimulation can come from receptive intercourse, [[Fingering (sexual act)|fingering]], [[fisting]], or penetration with a [[dildo]]. With sufficient stimulation, the prostatic structure can also be "milked." Providing that there is no simultaneous stimulation of the penis, [[prostate milking]] can cause ejaculation without orgasm. When combined with penile stimulation, some men report that prostate stimulation increases the volume of their ejaculation. ===Vaginal orgasm=== The female body can achieve orgasm from stimulation of the [[clitoris]] and from stimulation of the [[G-spot]]. The [[Gräfenberg]] spot, or G-spot, is a small area behind the female pubic bone surrounding the urethra and accessible through the anterior wall of the vagina. Many scientists believe that only certain women possess a G-spot{{Fact|date=May 2008}}. The G-spot orgasm is sometimes referred to as "vaginal," because it results from stimulation inside the vagina, including during [[sexual intercourse]]. However, only stimulation of the G-spot, and not other intravaginal stimulation, results in a "vaginal orgasm."{{Fact|date=March 2008}} The "two-orgasm theory" (the belief that in women there is a vaginal orgasm and a clitoral orgasm), has been criticized by [[feminists]] such as Ellen Ross and Rayna Rapp as a "transparently male perception of the female body".<ref>Ellen Ross, Rayna Rapp ''[http://links.jstor.org/sici?sici=0010-4175%28198101%2923%3A1%3C51%3ASASARN%3E2.0.CO%3B2-B Sex and Society: A Research Note from Social History and Anthropology]'' Comparative Studies in Society and History, Vol. 23, No. 1 (Jan., 1981), pp. 51-72</ref> The concept of purely vaginal orgasm was first postulated<!--rules are "promulgated"; theories are "postulated"--> by [[Sigmund Freud]]. In 1905, Freud argued that clitoral orgasm was an adolescent phenomenon, and upon reaching puberty the proper response of mature women changes to vaginal orgasms. While Freud provided no evidence for this basic assumption, the consequences of the theory were greatly elaborated, partly because many women felt inadequate when they could not achieve orgasm via vaginal intercourse that involved little or no clitoral stimulation. In 1966, [[Masters and Johnson]] published pivotal research about the phases of sexual stimulation. Their work included women and men, and unlike [[Alfred Kinsey]] earlier (in 1948 and 1953), tried to determine the [[physiology|physiological]] stages before and after orgasm.<ref>{{cite web | title=Masters and Johnson | url=http://health.discovery.com/centers/sex/sexpedia/mandj.html | publisher=The Discovery Channel | accessdate=2006-05-28}}</ref> One of the results was the promotion of the idea that vaginal and clitoral orgasms follow the same stages of physical response. Masters and Johnson also argued that clitoral stimulation is the primary source of orgasms. Recent discoveries about the size of the clitoris - it extends inside the body, around the vagina<ref>[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16145367 O'Connell HE, Sanjeevan KV, Hutson JM. Anatomy of the Clitoris] J Urol. 2005 Oct;174 (4 Pt 1):1189-95; [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/5013866.stm Time for rethink on the clitoris] at BBC News site.</ref> - complicate or may invalidate attempts to distinguish clitoral vs. vaginal orgasms. Recent anatomical research shows that there are nerves connecting intravaginal tissues and the clitoris.{{Fact|date=May 2007}} This, with the anatomical evidence that the internal part of the clitoris is a much larger organ than previously thought, could explain credible reports of orgasms in women who have undergone [[female genital cutting|clitorectomy]] as part of [[female genital cutting|female circumcision]]. The link between the clitoris and the vagina is evidence that the clitoris is the 'seat' of the female orgasm and is far more wide-spread than the visible part most people associate with it. But it is possible that some women have more extensive clitoral tissues and nerves than others, and so that some women can achieve orgasm only by direct stimulation of the external part of the clitoris. ===Anal stimulation=== '''Anal orgasm''' is an orgasm brought on by anal stimulation, such as from [[anal sex]], an inserted finger, or a [[sex toy]]. Anecdotal evidence suggests that some women experience anal orgasm as qualitatively different from clitoral or "vaginal" orgasm, though for many others the distinction is less clear.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.puckerup.com/female_pleasure/anal_sex_v._vaginal_sex/ | title=Anal sex v. vaginal sex | accessdate=2006-11-02 | last=Taormino | first=Tristan | language=English}}</ref> In both sexes pleasure can be derived from the nerve endings around the anus and the anus itself. Hence, [[anal-oral contact]] can still be pleasurable without stimulation of the clitoris. Jack Morin has claimed that anal orgasm has nothing to do with the prostate orgasm, although the two are often confused.<ref>{{cite book | author = Morin, Jack | title = Anal Pleasure and Health | edition = 3d Edition | publisher = Down There Press | year = 1998 | id = ISBN 0-940208-20-2}}</ref> ===Breast and nipple stimulation=== A [[breast]] orgasm is a female orgasm that is triggered from the stimulation of a woman's breast.<ref>{{cite book|last=Levay|first=Simon|coauthors=Sharon McBride Valente|title=Human Sexuality, Second Edition|publisher = Sinauer Associates, Inc.|date=[[2005-11-15]]|isbn =9780878934652}}</ref> Not all women experience this effect when the breasts are stimulated; however, some women claim that the stimulation of the breast area during [[sexual intercourse]] and [[foreplay]], or just the simple act of having their breasts fondled, has created mild to intense orgasms. According to one study that questioned 213 women, 29% of them had experienced a breast orgasm at one time or another,<ref>Otto, Herbert A. (1988) New Orgasm Options: Expanding Sexual Pleasure.</ref> This shows that it is not common, but it is possible. An orgasm is believed to occur in part because of the hormone [[oxytocin]], which is produced in the body during [[Sexual arousal|sexual excitement and arousal]]. It has also been shown that oxytocin is produced when an individual's [[nipple]]s are stimulated and become erect.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2006.00230.x|title=The Journal of Sexual Medicine}}</ref> ===Spontaneous orgasms=== Orgasms can be spontaneous, seeming to occur with no direct stimulation. Occasionally, orgasms can occur during sexual dreams (see [[Nocturnal emission]]). The first orgasm of this type was reported among people who had [[spinal cord injury]] (SCI). Although SCI very often leads to loss of certain sensations and altered self-perception, a person with this disturbance is not deprived of sexual feelings such as sexual arousal and erotic desires. Thus some individuals are able to initiate orgasm by mere mental stimulation. Some non-sexual activity may result in a spontaneous orgasm. The best example of such activity is a release of tension that unintentionally involves slight genital stimulation, like rubbing of the seat of the [[bicycle]] against genitals during riding, exercising, when pelvic [[muscle]]s are tightened or when [[yawning]] or [[sneezing]]. It was also discovered that some anti-depressant drugs may provoke spontaneous climax as a side effect.<ref>{{cite web | title=The core of female orgasm | work=Human Sexuality - Orgasm | url=http://sexterms.virtualove.net/human-sexuality/female-orgasm.html | publisher=Sex Terms}}</ref> There is no accurate data for how many patients who were on treatment with antidepressant drugs experienced spontaneous orgasm, as most were unwilling to acknowledge the fact. ===Involuntary orgasms=== Orgasms can happen as the result of forced sexual contact as during [[rape]] or [[frotteurism]]. The incidence of those who experience unsolicited sexual contact and experience orgasm is very low though possibly underreported due to shame or embarrassment. Involuntary orgasms can happen regardless of gender.<ref>{{cite journal |author=Levin RJ, van Berlo W |title=Sexual arousal and orgasm in subjects who experience forced or non-consensual sexual stimulation -- a review |journal=J Clin Forensic Med |volume=11 |issue=2 |pages=82–8 |year=2004 |month=April |pmid=15261004 |doi=10.1016/j.jcfm.2003.10.008 |url=}}</ref> [[Forced orgasm]] during [[BDSM]] also involves involuntary orgasm, though the sexual activity is consensual. ===Multiple orgasms=== In some cases, women either do not have a [[refractory period (sex)|refractory period]] or have a very short one and thus can experience a second orgasm, and perhaps further ones, soon after the first. After the first, subsequent climaxes may be stronger or more pleasurable as the stimulation accumulates. For some women, their clitoris and nipples are very sensitive after climax, making additional stimulation initially painful. There are sensational reports of women having [[Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder|too many orgasms]], including an unauthenticated claim that a young British woman has them constantly throughout the day, whenever she experiences the slightest vibration.<ref>{{cite news | title=British woman suffers from orgasms every 5 minutes |url=http://english.pravda.ru/society/stories/26-05-2006/81080-orgasm-0 | date=2006-05-26 | publisher=Pravda}}</ref> It is possible for a man to have an orgasm without ejaculation (dry orgasm) or to ejaculate without reaching orgasm. Some men have reported having multiple consecutive orgasms, particularly without ejaculation. Males who experience dry orgasms can often produce multiple orgasms, as the [[refractory period (sex)|refractory period]], is reduced.<ref name="Janssen">{{cite book | author=Janssen, D.F. | title=Growing Up Sexually -- The Sexual Curriculum |date=October 2002 | chapter=Volume II: The Sexual Curriculum: The Manufacture and Performance of Pre-Adult Sexualities. | chapterurl=http://www2.rz.hu-berlin.de/sexology/GESUND/ARCHIV/GUS/CHILDORG.HTM}}</ref> Some males are able to masturbate for hours at a time, achieving orgasm many times.<ref name="Janssen">{{cite book | author=Janssen, D.F. | title=Growing Up Sexually -- The Sexual Curriculum |date=October 2002 | chapter=Volume II: The Sexual Curriculum: The Manufacture and Performance of Pre-Adult Sexualities. | chapterurl=http://www2.rz.hu-berlin.de/sexology/GESUND/ARCHIV/GUS/CHILDORG.HTM}}</ref> In recent years, a number of books have described various techniques to achieve multiple orgasms. Most multi-orgasmic men (and their partners) report that refraining from ejaculation results in a far more energetic post-orgasm state.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Additionally, some men have also reported that this can produce more powerful ejaculatory orgasms when they choose to have them. One dangerous technique is to put pressure on the [[perineum]], about halfway between the [[scrotum]] and the [[anus]], just before ejaculating to prevent ejaculation. This can, however, lead to [[retrograde ejaculation]], i.e. redirecting semen into the [[urinary bladder]] rather than through the [[urethra]] to the outside. It may also cause long term damage due to the pressure put on the nerves and blood vessels in the perineum.{{Fact|date=July 2008}} Men who have had prostate or bladder surgery, for whatever reason, may also experience dry orgasms because of retrograde ejaculation. Other techniques are analogous to reports by multi-orgasmic women indicating that they must relax and "let go" to experience multiple orgasms. These techniques involve mental and physical controls over pre-ejaculatory vasocongestion and emissions, rather than ejaculatory contractions or forced retention as above. Anecdotally, successful implementation of these techniques can result in continuous or multiple "full-body" orgasms.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sexuality.org/l/sex/cmo.html | title=Continuous Male Orgasms | quote=Learn to enhance and maintain indefinitely the physiological events and associated pleasure of an absolutely imminent ejaculatory orgasm.}}</ref> Gentle digital stimulation of the prostate, seminal vesicles, and vas deferens provides erogenous pleasure that sustains intense emissions orgasms for some men. A [[dildo]] device (the [[Aneros]]) claims to stimulate the prostate and help men reach these kinds of orgasms. Many men who began masturbation or other sexual activity prior to puberty report having been able to achieve multiple non-ejaculatory orgasms. Young male children are capable of having multiple orgasms due to the lack of refractory period until they reach their first ejaculation. In female children it is always possible, even after the onset of puberty. This capacity generally disappears in males with the subject's first ejaculation. Some evidence indicates that orgasms of men before puberty are qualitatively similar to the "normal" female experience of orgasm, suggesting that hormonal changes during puberty have a strong influence on the character of male orgasm.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.themarriagebed.com/pages/sexuality/splay/betterforhim.shtml | title=How to make sex better for him | accessdate=2006-11-02 | last=Byerly | first=Paul & Lori | language=English | quote=Boys who discover masturbation before puberty can't ejaculate, but they can have orgasms. They can also have multiple orgasms like women can, but then lose this ability when puberty adds ejaculation to their orgasms.}}</ref> A number of studies have pointed to the hormone [[prolactin]] as the likely cause of male [[refractory period (sex)|refractory period]]. Because of this, there is currently an experimental interest in drugs which inhibit prolactin, such as [[cabergoline]] (also known as Cabeser, or Dostinex). Anecdotal reports on cabergoline suggest it may be able to eliminate the refractory period altogether, allowing men to experience multiple ejaculatory orgasms in rapid succession. At least one scientific study supports these claims.<ref>{{cite journal | first=Tillmann H.C. | last=Krüger | coauthors=et al. | year=2003 | month=December | title=Effects of acute prolactin manipulation on sexual drive and function in males | journal=Journal of Endocrinology | volume=179 | issue=3 | pages=357 – 65 | url=http://journals.endocrinology.org/joe/179/joe1790357.htm | accessdate=2006-05-28 | doi=10.1677/joe.0.1790357 | pmid=14656205}}</ref> Cabergoline is a hormone-altering drug and has many potential side effects. It has not been approved for treating sexual dysfunction. Another possible reason may be an increased infusion of the hormone [[oxytocin]]. Furthermore, it is believed that the amount by which oxytocin is increased may affect the length of each refractory period. A scientific study to successfully document natural, fully ejaculatory, multiple orgasms in an adult man was conducted at [[Rutgers University]] in 1995. During the study, six fully ejaculatory orgasms were experienced in 36 minutes, with no apparent refractory period.<ref>{{cite journal | first=B. | last=Whipple | coauthors=B. Myers and B. Komisaruk | year=1998 | title=Male Multiple Ejaculatory Orgasms: A Case Study | journal=Journal of Sex Education and Therapy | volume=23 | issue=2 | pages=157 – 62}}</ref> It can also be said that in some cases, the refractory period can be reduced or even eliminated through the course of puberty and on into adulthood. Later, P. Haake ''et al''. observed a single male individual producing multiple orgasms without elevated prolactin response.<ref>{{cite journal | first=P. | last=Haake | coauthors=et al. | year=2002 | month=April | title=Absence of orgasm-induced prolactin secretion in a healthy multi-orgasmic male subject | journal=International Journal of Impotence Research | volume=14 | issue=2 | pages=133 – 5 | doi=10.1038/sj.ijir.3900823}}</ref> ==Definitions of "orgasm"== There is some debate whether certain types of sexual sensation should be accurately classified as 'orgasm', including female orgasms caused by [[G-spot]] stimulation alone, and the demonstration of extended or continuous orgasms lasting several minutes or even an hour.<ref>{{cite book | author = Schwartz, Bob | title = The One Hour Orgasm: A New Approach to Achieving Maximum Sexual Pleasure | publisher = Breakthru Publishing | date = May 1992 | id = ISBN 0942540077}}</ref> The question centers around clinical definition of orgasm. Orgasm is usually defined in a clinical context strictly by the muscular contractions involved. In these and similar cases, the sensations experienced are subjective and do not necessarily involve the involuntary contractions characteristic of orgasm. However, the sensations in both sexes are extremely pleasurable and are often felt throughout the body, causing a mental state that is often described as transcendental, and with vasocongestion and associated pleasure comparable to that of a full contractionary orgasm. For this reason, there are views on both sides as to whether these can be accurately defined as orgasms. ==Evolutionary function of orgasms== Most male orgasms expel [[sperm]] from the body during vaginal intercourse, which can result in conception. [[Evolutionary biology|Evolutionary biologists]] have several hypotheses about the role, if any, of the female orgasm in the reproductive process. In 1967, [[Desmond Morris]] first suggested in his popular-science book ''[[The Naked Ape]]'' that female orgasm evolved to encourage physical intimacy with a male partner and help reinforce the pair bond. Morris suggested that the relative difficulty in achieving female orgasm, in comparison to the male's, might be favorable in Darwinian evolution by leading the female to select mates who bear qualities like patience, care, imagination, intelligence, as opposed to qualities like size and aggression, which pertain to mate selection in other primates. Such advantageous qualities thereby become accentuated within the species, driven by the differences between male and female orgasm. If males were motivated by, and taken to the point of, orgasm in the same way as females, those advantageous qualities would not be needed, since self-interest would be enough. Morris also proposed that orgasm might facilitate conception by exhausting the female and keeping her horizontal, thus preventing the sperm from leaking out. This possibility, sometimes called the "Poleax Hypothesis" or the "Knockout Hypothesis," is now considered highly doubtful. Other theories are based on the idea that the female orgasm might increase fertility. For example, the 30% reduction in size of the vagina could help clench onto the penis (much like, or perhaps caused by, the [[pubococcygeus muscle]]s), which would make it more stimulating for the male (thus ensuring faster or more voluminous ejaculation). The [[United Kingdom|British]] biologists Baker and Bellis have suggested that the female orgasm may have an "upsuck" action (similar to the [[esophagus]]' ability to swallow when upside down), resulting in the retaining of favorable sperm and making conception more likely.<ref> Baker, R. R., and Bellis, M. A. (1993). Human sperm competition: Ejaculation manipulation by females and a function for the female orgasm. Animal Behavior, 46, 887-909.</ref> They posited a role of female orgasm in [[sperm competition]]. A 1994 [[TLC (TV channel)|Learning Channel]] documentary on sex had fiber optic cameras inside the vagina of a woman while she had sexual intercourse. During her orgasm, her [[Pelvic floor|pelvic muscles]] contracted and her [[Vaginal portion of cervix|cervix]] repeatedly dipped into a pool of semen in the [[vaginal fornix]], as if to ensure that sperm would proceed by the [[external orifice of the uterus]], making conception more likely.<ref>{{cite video | people=[[Desmond Morris]] (host) | year=1994 | title=The Human Animal | medium=TV | publisher=The Learning Channel}}</ref> [[Elisabeth Lloyd]] has criticized the accompanying narration of this film clip which describes it as an example of "Sperm Upsuck", saying that it depicted normal orgasmic uterine contractions, which have not been shown to have any effect on fertility.<ref>[http://mypage.iu.edu/%7Eealloyd/Reviews.html#IHaveSeenVideo Reviews<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The fact that women tend to reach orgasm more easily when they are ovulating suggests that it is tied to increasing fertility.<ref>{{cite news | first=David | last=Adam | url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/life/science/story/0,12996,1501314,00.html | date=[[2005-06-08]] | title=Female orgasm all in the genes | publisher=The Guardian | accessdate=2006-05-28}}</ref> Other biologists surmise that the orgasm simply serves to motivate sex, thus increasing the rate of reproduction, which would be selected for during evolution. Since males typically reach orgasms faster than females, it potentially encourages a female's desire to engage in intercourse more frequently, increasing the likelihood of conception. ===Purpose of female orgasm=== The clitoris is [[homology (biology)|homologous]] to the penis; that is, they both develop from the same embryonic structure. [[Stephen Jay Gould]] and other researchers have claimed that the clitoris is [[vestigial organ|vestigial]] in females, and that female orgasm serves no particular evolutionary function. Proponents of this hypothesis, such as Dr. [[Elisabeth Lloyd]], point to the relative difficulty of achieving female orgasm through vaginal sex, the limited evidence for increased fertility after orgasm and the lack of statistical correlation between the capacity of a woman to orgasm and the likelihood that she will engage in intercourse.<ref>[http://mypage.iu.edu/%7Eealloyd/Reviews.html#IsntItObviousThat Reviews<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Science writer [[Natalie Angier]] has criticized this hypothesis as understating the psychosocial value of female orgasm. [[Catherine Blackledge]] in ''[[The Story of V]]'', citing studies that indicate a possible connection between orgasm and successful conception, has criticized the hypothesis as ignoring the ongoing evolutionary advantages that result from successful conception. The [[anthropologist]] and [[primatologist]] [[Sarah Blaffer Hrdy]] has also criticized the argument that female orgasm as vestigial, writing that the idea smacked of [[sexism]]. <ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.arlindo-correia.com/241005.html |author=Christopher Shea| title=Orgasmic science| publisher=[[The Boston Globe]]| date=2005-04-24}}</ref> Evolutionary biologist Robin Baker argues in [[Sperm Wars]] that occurrence and timing of orgasms are all a part of the female body's unconscious strategy to collect and retain sperm from more evolutionarily fit men. An orgasm during intercourse functions as a bypass button to a woman's natural cervical filter against sperm and pathogens. An orgasm before functions to strengthen the filter. ===Genetic basis of individual variation=== A 2005 [[twin study]] found that one in three women reported never or seldom achieving orgasm during intercourse, and only one in ten always orgasmed. This variation in ability to orgasm, generally thought to be psychosocial, was found to be 34% to 45% genetic. The study, examining 4000 women, was published in ''[[Biology letters]]'', a [[Royal Society]] journal.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/4616899.stm | title=Female orgasm is 'down to genes' | publisher=[[BBC]] | date=[[2005-06-07]] | accessdate=2006-05-28}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release | publisher=Primary Care Sciences Research Centre, Keele University | date=[[2005-06-07]] | url=http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2005-06/rs-sir060605.php | title=Genetic influences on variation in female orgasmic function: a twin study by Dr KM Dunn, Dr LF Cherkas and Prof TD Spector | accessdate=2006-05-28}}</ref> Dr. [[Elisabeth Lloyd]] has cited this as evidence for her Fantastic Bonus Theory.<ref>[http://mypage.iu.edu/%7Eealloyd/Reviews.html#IReadRecentlyThat Reviews<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> ==Medical aspects of orgasm== ===Physiological responses=== ====In men==== During orgasm, a [[human]] male experiences rapid, rhythmic contractions of the [[anal sphincter]], the [[prostate]], and the muscles of the [[penis]]. The [[sperm]] are transmitted up the [[vas deferens]] from the [[testicles]], into the [[prostate]] gland as well as through the [[seminal vesicle]]s to produce what is known as [[semen]]. The prostate produces a secretion that forms one of the components of ejaculate. Contraction of the sphincter and prostate force stored [[semen]] to be expelled through the penis's urethral opening. The process takes from three to ten seconds, and is highly pleasurable. Normally, as a man ages, the amount of semen he ejaculates diminishes, and so does the duration of orgasms. This does not normally affect the intensity of pleasure, but merely shortens the duration. After ejaculation, a [[refractory period (sex)|refractory period]] usually occurs, during which a man cannot achieve another orgasm. This can last anywhere from less than a minute to several hours, depending on age and other individual factors. =====Sensation===== As a man nears orgasm during stimulation of the [[penis]], he feels an intense and highly pleasurable pulsating sensation of [[neuromuscular]] [[Euphoria (emotion)|euphoria]]. These pulses begin with a throb of the [[anal sphincter]] and travel to the [[glans penis|tip of the penis]]. They eventually increase in speed and intensity as the orgasm approaches, until a final "plateau" of pleasure sustained for several seconds, the orgasm. During orgasm, [[semen]] is usually ejaculated and may continue to be ejaculated for a few seconds after the euphoric sensation gradually tapers off. It is believed that the exact feeling of "orgasm" varies from one man to another,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m2372/is_2_39/ai_91475118 |title=Do all orgasms feel alike? |accessdate=2007-01-05}}</ref> but most male human beings agree that it is highly pleasurable. ====In women==== A typical woman's orgasm lasts much longer than that of a man.<ref>{{cite web | title = Women fall into 'trance' during orgasm | work = Mark Henderson | publisher = Times Online | date = | url = http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article535521.ece | | accessdate = 2007-03-07 }}</ref> It is preceded by erection of the [[clitoris]] and moistening of the opening of the [[vagina]]. Some women exhibit a [[sex flush]], a reddening of the [[skin]] over much of the body due to increased [[blood]] flow to the skin. As a woman nears orgasm, the [[clitoral glans]] moves inward under the [[clitoral hood]], and the [[labia minora]] (inner lips) become darker. As orgasm becomes imminent, the outer third of the vagina tightens and narrows, while overall the vagina lengthens and dilates and also becomes congested from engorged soft tissue.<ref>{{cite web | title = Anatomic and physiologic changes during female sexual response | work = Clinical Proceedings | publisher = Association of Reproductive Health Professionals | date = | url = http://www.arhp.org/healthcareproviders/cme/onlinecme/NYNCP/changes.cfm | accessdate = 2007-02-01 }}</ref> The [[uterus]] then experiences muscular contractions. A woman experiences full orgasm when her [[uterus]], vagina, [[anus]], and [[pelvis|pelvic muscles]] undergo a series of rhythmic contractions. Most women find these contractions very pleasurable. Recently, researchers from the University Medical Center of [[Groningen (city)|Groningen]], the Netherlands, showed that it is possible to objectively recognize orgasms just by the specific frequencies of these contractions [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=search&db=pubmed&term=17186125 (abstract)].<!-- better, "proposed this as an objective measure" - Wikipedia should not endorse their work --> After orgasm, the clitoris re-emerges from under the clitoral hood, and returns to its normal size, typically within ten minutes. ===Orgasm and health=== Orgasm, and indeed sex as a whole, are physical activities that can require exertion of many major bodily systems. A 1997 study in the ''[[British Medical Journal]]''<ref>Sex and Death, Are They Related?</ref> based upon 918 men age 45-59 found that after a ten year follow-up, men who had fewer orgasms were twice as likely to die of any cause as those having two or more orgasms a week. A follow-up in 2001 which focused more specifically on [[cardiovascular]] health found that having sex three or more times a week was associated with a 50% reduction in the risk of [[myocardial infarction|heart attack]] or [[stroke]]. (Note that as a rule, [[correlation does not imply causation]]). ===Orgasmic dysfunction=== The inability to have orgasm is called [[anorgasmia]], ejaculatory [[anhedonia]], or inorgasmia. If a male experiences [[erection]] and [[ejaculation]] but no orgasm, he is said to have [[sexual anhedonia]]. For a variety of reasons, some people choose to [[fake orgasm|fake an orgasm]]. A recent [[Redbook]] survey shows that 52% of women regularly fake orgasms. Only 17% are likely to have an orgasm during [[sexual intercourse]], because the [[clitoris]] often is not stimulated enough by intercourse alone. 43% of women report “some kind of sexual problem,” such as inability to achieve orgasm, boredom with sex, or total lack of interest in sex.{{Fact|date=April 2007}} If orgasm is desired, anorgasmia is mainly attributed to an inability to relax, or "let go." It seems to be closely associated with performance pressure and an unwillingness to pursue pleasure, as separate from the other person's satisfaction. Often, women worry so much about the pleasure of their partner that they become anxious, which manifests as impatience with the delay of orgasm for them. This delay can lead to frustration of not reaching orgasmic sexual satisfaction. Psychoanalyst [[Wilhelm Reich]], in his 1927 book ''[[The Function of the Orgasm]]'' was the first to make orgasm central to the concept of mental health, and defined [[neurosis]] in terms of blocks to having full orgasm. Although orgasm dysfunction can have psychological components, physiological factors often play a role. For instance, delayed orgasm or the inability to achieve orgasm is a common side effect of many medications. Specifically in relation to simultaneous orgasm and similar practices, many sexologists claim that the problem of [[premature ejaculation]]<ref>[http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/IES/italy.html The International Encyclopedia of Sexuality: Italy<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> is closely related to the idea encouraged by a scientific approach in early 20th century when mutual orgasm was overly emphasized as an objective and a sign of true sexual satisfaction in intimate relationships. A focus that is brought to the subject of simultaneous orgasm raises the problem that a man becomes too concerned with [[Delayed ejaculation|delaying ejaculation]], which in fact deprives the intercourse from the necessary spontaneity and thus only making simultaneous orgasm even more difficult to reach. When partners become preoccupied with controlling and synchronizing their actions instead of enjoying the process, this may lead to sexual disturbance. ===Drugs and orgasm=== Certain drugs have been reported to have enhancing effects on orgasm. [[Nitrite inhalants]] are used by both men and women to enhance orgasm. [[cannabis (drug)|Marijuana]] enhances both male and female orgasms (it should be noted that marijuana generates a general heightening of sensations), while at the same time delaying ejaculation.<ref name="marijuana">[http://www.changetheclimate.org/news/sex.php Marijuana and Sex: A Classic Combination]</ref> [[gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid|GHB]], [[Gamma-Butyrolactone|GBL]] and [[1,4 Butanediol]] are commonly used to enhance orgasms. [[Cocaine]] also increases sexual desire while delaying orgasm.[http://www.thegooddrugsguide.com/cocaine/faq.htm] Both male and female users of [[stimulant]]s, such as 3,4-MDMA ([[Ecstasy (drug)|ecstasy]]), and [[Psychedelics, dissociatives and deliriants|psychedelics]] like [[LSD]] and [[Psilocybin|psilocybin-containing mushrooms]] sometimes report heightened sexual pleasure. Throughout history, [[recreational drug use|recreational drugs]] have been used to enhance orgasm but, due to lack of research (or government-mandated research restrictions), may be unreliable or have hazardous side effects.<ref name="marijuana" /> Anecdotal evidence suggests that women have enhanced orgasms with [[sildenafil]] (commercially known as ''Viagra'').<ref>[http://taylorandfrancis.metapress.com/(cgzr0zfondlxzij2ptz4du45)/app/home/contribution.asp?referrer=parent&backto=issue,5,33;journal,28,39;linkingpublicationresults,1:102471,1 Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> ==In tantric sex== [[Tantric sex]] is the ancient [[India]]n spiritual tradition of sexual practices. It attributes a different value to orgasm than traditional cultural approaches to sexuality. Some practitioners of tantric sex aim to eliminate orgasm from [[sexual intercourse]] by remaining for a long time in the pre-orgasmic and non-emission state. Advocates of this, such as [[Rajneesh]], claim that it eventually causes orgasmic feelings to spread out to all of one's conscious experience.<ref>{{cite book | author = Rajneesh, Bhagwan Shree | title = Tantra, Spirituality, and Sex | year = 1983}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | author = Chia, Mantak & Abrams, Douglas | title = The Multi-Orgasmic Man | publisher = Harper San Francisco | year = 1996 | id = ISBN 0-06-251336-2}}</ref> Some advocates of [[Tantra|tantric]] and [[Neotantra|neotantric]] sex claim that Western culture focuses too much on the goal of climactic orgasm, which reduces our ability to have intense pleasure during other moments of the sexual experience. Eliminating this enables a richer, fuller and more intense connection.<ref>{{cite book | author = Douglas, N & Slinger, P | title = Sexual Secrets: The Alchemy of Ecstasy | publisher = Destiny Books | year = 1979}}</ref> These practices should not be confused with [[Vajrayana|Buddhist tantra (Vajrayana)]]. ==In other animals== The mechanics of male orgasm are similar in most mammals. Females of some mammal and some non-mammal species such as alligators<ref>[http://www.crocodilian.com/crocfaq/faq-8.html Crocodilian Captive Care FAQ (Caiman, Alligator, Crocodile)<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> have clitorises. There has been ongoing research about the sexuality and orgasms of [[dolphins]], a species which apparently engages in sexual intercourse for reasons other than procreation.<ref>National Geographic's ''Dolphins: The wild side'' documentary (1999), [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0386415/ IMDb]. "Sex is as frequent as it is casual, a social tool used to strengthen and maintain bonds. But beneath the harmony lies a darker side of dolphins. Gangs of strong males pick on younger or smaller dolphins.", quote from [http://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/press/990202.html National Geographic website]</ref> See [[Animal sexuality]]. ==Books== * Gabriele Froböse, Rolf Froböse, Michael Gross (Translator): ''Lust and Love: Is it more than Chemistry?'' Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry, ISBN 0-85404-867-7, (2006). * Komisaruk, Barry R.; Beyer-Flores, Carlos; Whipple, Beverly. ''The Science of Orgasm''. Baltimore, MD; London: The Johns Hopkins University Press, 2006 (hardcover, ISBN 0-8018-8490-X). ==See also== *[[Child sexuality]] *[[Female ejaculation]] *[[Female sexual arousal disorder]] *[[Forced orgasm]] (a [[BDSM]] term) *[[Human sexual behavior]] *[[Male ejaculation]] *[[Orgasm control]] *[[Persistent sexual arousal syndrome]] *[[Sexual function]] *[[The little death]] - French translation of "la petite mort," a euphemism for orgasm. ==Notes== {{reflist|2}} ==External links== *[http://menshealth.about.com/od/sexualhealth/a/male_orgasm.htm Men's Health: Male Orgasm] *[http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/menshealth/feature/helpwithorgasms.htm Net Doctor: Female Orgasm] *[http://books.google.com/books?id=7rfLcoQ2koQC&dq=&pg=PP1&ots=wVP5clVxss&sig=cRJ8rsavVqgSAoVHcOvwCmANfq4&prev=http://www.google.com/search%3Fhl%3Den%26q%3D%2522The%2BScience%2Bof%2BOrgasm%2522%2BWhipple%26btnG%3DSearch&sa=X&oi=print&ct=title The Science of Orgasm, by Barry R. Komisarak, Carlos Beyer-Flores, & Beverly Whipple] *[http://www.rawilsonfans.com/articles/cavalier.htm Sex and the Mind Expanding Drugs] {{Reproductive physiology}} {{sex}} [[Category:Orgasm| ]] [[Category:Human sexuality]] [[Category:Sexual acts]] [[Category:Greek loanwords]] {{Link FA|hr}} [[af:Orgasme]] [[ar:هزة الجماع]] [[be:Аргазм]] [[bg:Оргазъм]] [[ca:Orgasme]] [[cs:Orgasmus]] [[cy:Orgasm]] [[da:Orgasme]] [[de:Orgasmus]] [[et:Orgasm]] [[el:Οργασμός]] [[es:Respuesta sexual humana]] [[eo:Orgasmo]] [[eu:Orgasmo]] [[fa:اوج لذت جنسی]] [[fr:Orgasme]] [[ko:오르가슴]] [[hr:Orgazam]] [[id:Orgasme]] [[it:Orgasmo]] [[he:אורגזמה]] [[jv:Orgasme]] [[ka:ორგაზმი]] [[ku:Orgazm]] [[la:Orgasmus]] [[lt:Orgazmas]] [[hu:Orgazmus]] [[mk:Оргазам]] [[ml:രതിമൂര്‍ഛ]] [[nl:Orgasme]] [[ja:オーガズム]] [[no:Orgasme]] [[nn:Orgasme]] [[nds:Orgasmus]] [[pl:Orgazm]] [[pt:Orgasmo]] [[ro:Orgasm]] [[ru:Оргазм]] [[simple:Orgasm]] [[sk:Orgazmus]] [[sr:Оргазам]] [[sh:Orgazam]] [[su:Orgasme]] [[fi:Orgasmi]] [[sv:Orgasm]] [[ta:புணர்ச்சிப் பரவசநிலை]] [[te:భావప్రాప్తి]] [[th:จุดสุดยอดทางเพศ]] [[vi:Cực khoái]] [[tr:Orgazm]] [[uk:Оргазм]] [[yi:ארגאזם]] [[bat-smg:Uorgazmos]] [[zh:性高潮]]