Sexual Response Cycle
Updated:The sexual response cycle is a series of physiological and psychological changes that occur in the body during sexual activity. It was first described by researchers William Masters and Virginia Johnson in the 1960s and later refined by Helen Singer Kaplan. The cycle typically consists of four phases: excitement (or arousal), plateau, orgasm, and resolution.
During the excitement phase, heart rate and blood pressure increase, genitals become engorged with blood, and lubrication begins. The plateau phase involves the intensification of these responses. Orgasm is characterized by a peak in pleasure and involuntary muscle contractions. The resolution phase involves a return to the body's resting state.
Additional Information
It's important to note that the sexual response cycle can vary greatly between individuals and even from one sexual encounter to another. Factors such as stress, medication, alcohol consumption, and overall health can affect the cycle. Additionally, not all sexual experiences include all phases, and the duration of each phase can differ.
Understanding the sexual response cycle can be beneficial for addressing sexual concerns, enhancing sexual experiences, and diagnosing sexual dysfunctions. However, it's crucial to remember that there's no "normal" way to experience sexual response, and variations are common and natural.
Examples
A couple notices their breathing becoming faster and skin becoming flushed as they begin foreplay, indicating the excitement phase of the sexual response cycle.
A sex therapist uses knowledge of the sexual response cycle to help diagnose and treat issues like premature ejaculation or difficulty achieving orgasm.