The sexual response cycle is a series of physical and psychological changes that occur during sexual activity.
This process involves four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.
Breathing, blood flow, and heart rate continue to increase.
Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health
In females, the uterine and vaginal muscles contract rhythmically, releasing built-up tension.
In males, the pelvic muscles at the base of the penis contract, leading to semenejaculation.
It’s a natural recovery phase in which the body resets after sexual activity.
After ejaculation, the body releases prolactin, a hormone that temporarily reduces sexual desire and prevents immediate arousal.
The length of this period varies, ranging from minutes to hours.
However, some may feel fatigued after an orgasm and have a temporary loss of interest in sexual activity.
Factors Triggering the Sexual Response Cycle
Physical and psychological factors trigger the sexual response cycle.
In males, the sex hormone testosterone plays a role in sexual response to stimuli.
With vulvodynia, sexual activity can be painful despite arousal and an interest in sex.
Over time, this can erode intimacy and communication and cause misunderstandings and emotional disconnection.
These therapies can help explore emotional blocks, improve communication, and rebuild intimacy.
In males, these exercises can help improve erectile dysfunction and prevent premature ejaculation.
Physical, emotional, and psychological factors influence these stages.
Sexual function disorders can disrupt one or more stages of the cycle and impact relationship satisfaction.
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