The Science Of Orgasms
Orgasms, one of the most intriguing experiences in life.
When it comes to orgasms, it’s hard not to fall for marketing gimmicks. Pleasure sells, but, above all, orgasms are actually a singular phenomenon, an intense and pleasurable response to physical stimulation.
An orgasm can be divided into four stages: arousal, plateau (when one reaches maximum stimulation), orgasm and resolution. The earlier stages tend to come with an increase in blood flow, decreased heart rate, slower breathing and a decrease in nerve transmission.
In men, the anal sphincter, the prostate gland and the penis muscles contract until they reach ejaculation. The duration of the male orgasm is between 3 and 10 seconds, after which there is a period of time in which the male cannot have another orgasm.
Women do not have that refractory period. An orgasm lasts about 20 seconds, along with the contraction of the uterus, vagina and pelvic and anal muscles.
In both sexes, the orgasm is often controlled by the brain. According to MRI scans, orgasms trigger brain activity in at least 30 different regions. Dopamine is the star of the orgasm’s chemical process, and is also in charge of sparking our desire to experience orgasms over and over again.
Brain activity is the same in men and women. The lateral orbitofrontal cortex shuts down, reducing self-control, self-consciousness, rational control, fear and anxiety.
During an orgasm, many areas in women’s brains shut down completely, prompting a full period of relaxation. In women, the loosening of the hippocampus amygdala leads to emotional appeasement, while in men, it reduces aggression levels.
Due to the latter, an orgasm is clearly the best relaxation dynamic human nature has to offer.
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