orgasm

An orgasm is the peak of the sexual response, a period of intense pleasure that often follows a phase of rising arousal. It typically involves rhythmic contractions of the pelvic floor muscles, a surge of pleasurable sensations, and a release of sexual tension. In men, orgasm is commonly accompanied by ejaculation, while in women uterine and vaginal contractions may occur with or without ejaculation.

Orgasm occurs as part of the broader sexual response cycle, which includes excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. It is associated with a surge of neural activity in reward and limbic circuits and the release of hormones such as oxytocin and endorphins, contributing to feelings of well-being and bonding in some contexts.

People differ in how easily they reach orgasm; some experience it regularly, while others may have difficulty (anorgasmia) or variability in frequency. In men, a refractory period following orgasm typically reduces the likelihood of a second orgasm for a time, whereas many women may have multiple orgasms in a shorter span, though experiences vary widely.

Factors influencing orgasm include physical health, medications, hormonal status, stress, intimacy, and sexual experiences. Understanding anatomy, communication with partners, and consent are important, and medical evaluation can help address persistent difficulties.