After posting the “Faking it” and “Help! I can’t orgasm” videos I was bombarded with questions from my cis female viewers in regard to orgasms; what they are, how to have them, the things that happen with your body before, during, and after an orgasm, as well as what’s “normal”.
Rather then send out hundreds of separate messages, I thought I’d create a video that explains how the female sexual response cycle works and hopefully help you have bigger and better orgasms in the process.
Understanding The Female Sexual Response Cycle
The female sexual response cycle is a complex series of physical and emotional changes that occur in response to sexual stimulation. Like the male sexual response cycle, it is commonly broken down into four distinct phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. Each phase involves specific physical responses and plays a role in overall sexual satisfaction. However, the female sexual response cycle tends to be more varied and fluid, with greater individual differences in how women experience arousal and pleasure.
1. Excitement Phase
The excitement phase marks the beginning of sexual arousal and can be triggered by physical stimulation, psychological factors, or both. Sexual excitement in cis women involves increased blood flow to the pelvic area, which causes the clitoris, labia, and vaginal walls to swell and become more sensitive. Lubrication begins as fluid seeps through the walls of the vagina, which helps reduce friction during sexual activity. During this phase, the breasts may swell, and the nipples become erect due to increased blood flow.
This phase varies in length depending on a woman’s emotional state, level of attraction, and other external factors. A woman’s mood, stress levels, and comfort with her partner can all influence how quickly she enters the excitement phase. Arousal in women can sometimes be more gradual than in men, so taking time to build desire through foreplay can enhance the overall experience.
During this phase you may notice any, some, or all of the following: nipples becoming hard, becoming lubricated, separation and raising of the labia majora, increase in heart rate, flushing of the face and neck or body, heavier breathing, tensing of muscles, swelling of clitoris, increase in breast size, rise in blood pressure, clitoris becoming highly sensitive.
2. Plateau Phase
In the plateau phase, the physical and emotional arousal that began in the excitement phase intensifies. The clitoris becomes more engorged and sensitive, and the vaginal walls continue to swell as blood flow increases to the pelvic area. The vagina elongates and the inner part expands to prepare for potential penetration, a process known as “tenting.” Externally, the labia may darken in color due to increased blood flow, and muscle tension continues to build throughout the body, including in the thighs and abdomen.
During the plateau phase, breathing and heart rate increase, and the sensations of pleasure become more focused and intense. This phase can last for varying amounts of time, and the experience may fluctuate based on the type of stimulation and a woman’s individual response. Some women may hover in the plateau phase for an extended period, enjoying the buildup of tension and anticipation before progressing to orgasm, while others may move through it more quickly.
During this phase previous changes increase as well as the following; raising of the uterus to protect it from being hit by a thrusting object, opening of the cervix, vagina balloons to create a “seminal pool”, orgasmic platform develops.
3. Orgasm Phase
The orgasm phase is the climax of the sexual response cycle and is often characterized by a release of built-up sexual tension. During orgasm, rhythmic contractions of the pelvic muscles, including the muscles of the vagina and uterus, occur, creating intense feelings of pleasure. These contractions typically last a few seconds but may vary in intensity and duration from person to person. The number of contractions can range from five to twelve or more, depending on the individual and the circumstances.
Women can experience multiple orgasms without entering a refractory period, unlike men, allowing for continued arousal and pleasure. However, the intensity and frequency of orgasms can be influenced by emotional connection, comfort level, and external stimulation. Some women may experience orgasms from clitoral stimulation alone, while others achieve orgasm through vaginal or G-spot stimulation.
During this phase the body discharges all of the sexual tension experienced in previous stages and the following may be experienced; contractions begin in the vaginal walls, PC muscles, uterus, and rectum, facial contortions may happen, increased respiratory rate, increase in blood pressure, and possible squirting of vaginal fluids.
4. Resolution Phase
The resolution phase occurs as the body gradually returns to its pre-arousal state. Blood flow decreases, the swelling of the clitoris and vaginal tissues subsides, and the muscles relax. Some may feel a sense of relaxation or even euphoria during this phase, and if they have experienced orgasm, the tension in the body dissipates. If orgasm has not been reached, the resolution phase may involve lingering sexual tension and discomfort, sometimes referred to as “blue vulva,” though this is typically mild compared to the cis male experience of “blue balls.”
Importantly, unlike men, women do not have a refractory period that prevents immediate sexual re-arousal. This means that, under the right conditions, women can continue to be stimulated and experience additional orgasms without needing an extended recovery time.
During this phase the following physical reactions can be experienced; uterus descends from its “false” position, cervix dips into the seminal pool to access the semen, vagina returns to its normal size, clitoris descends to its normal position ,inner and outer lips return to normal size.
Conclusion
The female sexual response cycle is a dynamic and multifaceted process that involves physical, emotional, and psychological elements. Each phase – excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution – plays a key role in sexual pleasure and satisfaction. While the overall pattern is similar to the male sexual response cycle, women tend to experience greater variability in how they move through these phases, as arousal and response can differ significantly between individuals and situations.
Understanding the phases of the female sexual response cycle, and being aware of the factors that can influence arousal and pleasure, can help women and their partners create more fulfilling and satisfying sexual experiences. Emphasizing communication, emotional connection, and taking the time to explore individual preferences can enhance the overall sexual response and lead to more fulfilling intimacy.
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