Sexual response at every phase

Heather Shannon

Did you know there are actual studies on sexual behavior

and anatomy and physiology of sex?

The first study conducted on sexual behavior and reported in the Kinsey Reports in 1948 and 1953. From 19571990s, Masters and Johnson took it a step further and studied anatomy and physiology of sex through laboratory data and used both men and women subjects.

What these researchers discovered are the phases of sexual response: excitement phase, plateau phase, orgasm and resolution phase. If you ever wondered what happens to your body during sexual response, this is the article for you.

In the excitement phase (initial arousal), men and women will experience chemical changes that cause certain bodily changes. We call them excitatory chemicals. They are dopamine, norepinephrine, testosterone, estrogen, nitric acid and acetylcholine. The body’s response is increase in muscle tension, heart rate and breathing. The skin will flush and a rush of blood will flow to breasts and genitals, causing swelling in the area tissues. This phase lasts minutes to hours.

In the plateau phase (full arousal/excitement), physical changes continue to intensify the chemical response and increase in advancing muscle tension and sensations. This phase lasts up to the point of orgasm, which is the involuntary muscle contractions in the genital area and lasts a few seconds.

In resolution phase (after orgasm), the body (genitalia) will return to its normal level of functioning and sizes. There is a general sense of wellbeing, fatigue and relaxation. Women are capable of returning to orgasm, while men need a refractory period (more time) to restart the phases. Women are multiorgasmic, where men are not.

Studies have found that orgasms can relieve pain through the release of oxytocin. Oxytocin is a hormone that has been found to play a large part in our happiness, attractiveness, love, affection and sexual response. Yes, this is the same drug used to induce labor. Scientists continue to study the benefit of oxytocin release and some practitioners have begun using it in treatment of certain medical conditions.

Orgasms tend to get better with age. For young women between the ages of 18-24, 61% experienced an orgasm the last time they had sex. While women in their 30s, 65% experienced an orgasm. 70% of women will have an orgasm when they are in their 40s and 50s. Keep in mind, not every woman will or must have an orgasm when they have sex. Most of the time, an orgasm occurs with genital (clitoral) stimulation.

So what’s the “G-spot”?

Some women will experience an orgasm without clitoral stimulation which has been called vaginal orgasm. There is real science behind this. A German physician and researcher,

Dr. Ernst Gräfenberg found an area in the upper top part of the vagina along the path of the urethra (urinary tube). He found this area has a rough texture and is believed to be a place where many nerves connect, becoming the erotic zone for women. When stimulated, it produces an orgasm.

Why does it seem like there are many sexual problems men and women experience?

Let’s explore a little further. In the United States, 40% of men and women have concerns with sexual dysfunction and 12% of those consider it distressing. With sexual dysfunction, the most common complaint is the lack of desire (libido), 22% of the general population share this complaint. Postmenopausal women make up 15%, while men make up 5% of the population. Other sexual dysfunction complaints by women are impaired arousal, inability to achieve orgasm and painful sex.

To be considered a dysfunction, symptoms must reoccur or be persistent and will usually cause personal distress. Symptoms can increase with age and is a result of menopause, depression, medical conditions, certain medications (especially antidepressants) or fear of pregnancy.

Many childbearing age women find their lack of desire is a result of fatigue from disrupted sleep, overworked, distracted by children and worry and responsibilities in and outside the home to name a few. The fix for this is reducing stressors and take care of yourself. The reality is easier said than done.

Patience, understanding and strong communication skills with your partner are huge benefits to improving libido. Another option is to speak to your health care provider who can help with the medical aspects of libido.

How can you improve sex?

Maintain open clear communication with your partner. Adapt to a new lifestyle that decreases your stress and improves your fatigue. Have an evaluation by your health care provider. Consider vaginal lubricants or estrogen cream, if you are postmenopausal and are a candidate for it. Introduce sexual devices or become creative, to add spark back into the relationship. Lastly, sex therapy has up to an 85% success rate, but not widely sought out for fear and embarrassment.

Talk to your health care provider about which medications or medical conditions affect your libido and what options for improvement are available to you. SWM Let Us Host Your Visiting Family! 1854 Farmhouse Stay

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