Norepinephrine
Updated:Norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, is a hormone and neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in sexual arousal and function. It's part of the body's fight-or-flight response and is released during times of stress or excitement, including sexual stimulation. In the context of sexual health, norepinephrine contributes to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and overall arousal.
Additional Information
Norepinephrine works alongside other neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin to regulate mood, attention, and arousal. During sexual activity, it helps to increase blood flow to the genitals, enhances sensory perception, and contributes to the overall feeling of excitement. However, chronic stress and elevated norepinephrine levels can sometimes interfere with sexual function, highlighting the complex relationship between stress and sexual health.
Examples
During foreplay, norepinephrine release contributes to increased heart rate and genital arousal.
In cases of performance anxiety, excessive norepinephrine can sometimes lead to erectile difficulties in men or vaginal dryness in women.