Lecture on Orgasm

Definition and Physiology

• Orgasm: Sudden release of accumulated sexual excitement during the sexual response cycle.
• Characterized by intense sexual pleasure and rhythmic, involuntary muscular contractions in the pelvic region.
• Controlled by the autonomic nervous system; experienced by both males and females.
• Involves muscular spasms, euphoria, body movements, and vocalizations.
• Resolution Phase: Post-orgasm phase, known for relaxation and the release of neurohormones like oxytocin, prolactin, and endorphins.

Causes and Stimulation

• Typically results from physical stimulation of the penis in males (often with ejaculation) and the clitoris/vagina in females.
• Can be achieved through masturbation or with a partner (penetrative/non-penetrative sex).
• Possible through psychological means alone, such as erotic dreams.

Health Effects

• Includes physiological responses like a relaxed state and changes in the central nervous system, affecting metabolic activity.
• Cultural views vary on the importance of orgasm for sexual satisfaction.
• Orgasm-related dysfunctions include anorgasmia.

Clinical Perspective

• Defined by muscular contractions and changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration.
• Multiple definitions exist; debates on the classification of sensations as orgasms.

Female Orgasms

Achieving Orgasm

• Most commonly achieved through clitoral stimulation.
• Some women experience orgasm through vaginal stimulation, although it is less common due to fewer nerve endings.

Types of Orgasm

• Debates on clitoral vs. vaginal orgasms; Freud's outdated views challenged by Kinsey and Masters & Johnson.

Research and Variability

• Scientific focus on orgasm’s biological and psychological components; debates on the existence and role of the G-spot.

Exercise-induced Orgasms

• Known as "coregasm," these orgasms can be triggered by exercise and pelvic floor strengthening.

Male Orgasms

Mechanism

• Achieved by physical stimulation of the penis, often accompanied by ejaculation.
• Can occur without ejaculation (dry orgasm).

Refractory Period

• Post-orgasm phase with a temporary inability to achieve another orgasm.

Anal and Prostate Stimulation

• Prostate stimulation can induce orgasms, often described as more intense than penile stimulation.

Brain Activity and Orgasm

• Studies show brain activity changes during orgasm, with areas related to fear and anxiety shutting down.
• Similar emotional deactivation observed in both sexes during orgasm.

Health and Psychological Aspects

• Regular orgasms linked to improved health and longevity.
• Anorgasmia and postorgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) are notable dysfunctions.

Evolutionary Perspectives

• Debates on whether female orgasm holds evolutionary significance or is a byproduct of male orgasm.
• Hypotheses on female orgasm’s role in mate selection and genetic quality of offspring.

Additional Research Areas

• Vaginal versus clitoral orgasm; significance of the G-spot; psychological factors influencing orgasm.

Literature and Cultural Perspectives

• Orgasms have been a subject in literature across cultures, often associated with broader themes of life and death.

These notes summarize key points from the lecture on orgasm, covering physiological mechanisms, psychological aspects, and cultural perspectives.