The female orgasm remains a topic of great curiosity even in the scientific world. Researchers are constantly exploring how women experience orgasm, what helps, and what gets in the way. The good news is that this post will empower you with all the required knowledge for a more pleasurable and orgasm-filled sex life.
What is an orgasm?
Orgasm is simply the highest point of sexual pleasure, which is transient, but associated with delight, occasional altered consciousness and vaginal and pelvic muscle contractions.
It is a sophisticated, physiological reaction that can be achieved via genital or non-genital stimulation and involves a cascade of neurochemical processes.
If you are curious to know what the female orgasm feels like, the sensation varies from one woman to another. Generally, women encounter heightened pleasure in their genital region and throughout their bodies. The release of endorphins can bring happiness and relaxation, sometimes accompanied by a flush of the skin. The vaginal contractions may be felt and ejaculation is possible.
Stages of an orgasm
Researchers William Masters and Virginia Johnson outlined a four-step journey to orgasm:
Excitement
As a woman engages in sexual activity, her desire grows and this leads to a rush of blood into the genital organs and the breast. She also experiences increased heart rate and blood pressure, all setting the stage for what is to come.
Plateau
As the sexual tension intensifies, focus on the sexual stimuli heightens and other sensations are drowned out all while the heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration continue on their upward trend.
Orgasm
Here there is this sudden rhythmic contraction of the uterus, vagina, and pelvic floor muscles, accompanied by a warm tingling feeling that spreads through the body.
Resolution
After a few minutes, the body eases and the engorged glands recede. The vitals, such as heart rate and blood pressure also return to normal. After the stage of resolution, some women can still have another orgasm in quick succession.
How to have an orgasm
The following are essential tips for achieving that delightful climax.
Self-Exploration
Cultivate a deep connection with your body. Explore your erogenous zones through touch.
Open Communication
Discuss desires openly with your partner. There should be no shame or fear in letting your partner know what feels good and what doesn't.
Relaxing Atmosphere
Set the mood and atmosphere. You can dim the lights, play soothing music, and create an environment that puts you at ease.
Mindfulness
Practice being present in the moment to enhance sensations and contribute to a more fulfilling experience.
Erotic Materials and Sex Toys
Consider incorporating these, aligned with your preferences, for arousal.
Variety in Positions
Experiment with different sexual positions for comfort and pleasure.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Strengthen pelvic floor muscles with exercises like Kegels for enhanced pleasure.
Patience and Relaxation
Be patient with yourself. Relaxation is key to achieving climax.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to achieving orgasm.
Benefits of an orgasm
- Owing to the release of endorphins which are the body’s natural analgesia, orgasms can temporarily relieve pain.
- Orgasms enhance relaxation and reduce stress levels by causing the release of oxytocin, endorphins and prolactin.
- The calming effects of post-orgasmic hormones can improve sleep quality.
- The release of feel-good chemicals during orgasm, such as serotonin and dopamine, can enhance mood and overall well-being.
- Some studies suggest that sexual activity and orgasms may have a positive impact on the immune system.
- Oxytocin, often referred to as the "love or cuddle hormone," experiences a surge during orgasm, fostering emotional bonding and attachment.
- Sexual activity, including orgasm, can be associated with cardiovascular benefits such as lowering of blood pressure
- Orgasms can strengthen the pelvic floor, which in turn can improve bladder control and sexual function
- Studies have shown that it can improve our memory and concentration, as well as enhance our creativity and problem-solving skills. This is because orgasm releases endorphins, which can improve blood flow to the brain.
Medications that can help with female orgasm
While some medications have been explored for boosting orgasm in females, insufficient evidence exists to conclusively support their effectiveness. These include:
Oestrogen Therapy
Low-dose oestrogen therapy in vaginal forms, like creams or suppositories, can enhance blood flow and lubrication. However, prolonged use of oestrogen pills increases the risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Testosterone Therapy
Postmenopausal women with lower-than-normal testosterone levels might find arousal and orgasm improvement with testosterone replacement. Risks are akin to oestrogen replacement therapy.
O-Shot
Aside from medications, medical procedures like the O-Shot, a novel approach to sexual health, has garnered significant attention from experts due to its potential benefits.
The O-Shot, also known as the Orgasm Shot, is a revolutionary, minimally invasive medical procedure to improve orgasm, libido and sexual function. It involves injecting the clitoris, labia and vaginal area with growth factors derived from platelets found in the patient's own blood, to enhance sexual pleasure and improve the female orgasm. These growth factors are known for their healing properties.
Alternative medicine
Natural products like L-arginine or Russian olive tree extract have been marketed to enhance women's sexual experiences. Limited data from small trials exist, and their effectiveness is uncertain.
Conclusion
Delving into the mysterious world of the female orgasm unveils a captivating blend of biology, art, physiology and psychology. Each person's journey to orgasm is unique, highlighting the beauty of individual experiences.
About the Author
Ferdinand Obi (MBBS, MWACS,FMCOG, MPH): Bridging medicine and words.