How Does
The Elusive Female Orgasm
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Merriam Webster Dictionary defines orgasm as an intense or paroxysmal excitement, especially an explosive discharge of neuromuscular tensions at the height of sexual arousal. For women, the big O is often elusive and difficult to both obtain and define. However, medical science has effectively monitored the female body, allowing women and their partners a better understanding of the physical workings of a female orgasm.
Physical Reactions
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As a woman becomes aroused, many physical things occur, including the swelling of the labia and breasts, quickening of the heart and tensing of various muscle groups through the body. As the breasts swell with blood, the areola area may darken and the nipples will likely become erect and sensitive to the touch. The vagina also swells as blood rushes into the area and natural lubrication is produced. These are all signs of mounting sexual excitement.
Release
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As stimulation continues and the body prepares to release sexual tension, the clitoris will recess slightly inside the vagina. This is often followed by the release of tension and contraction of the vaginal muscles.
"The Science of Orgasm," a reference book which explores the complex biological process of orgasm in both men and women, asserts that the vagina walls often contract three to five times during orgasm; however, some women have experienced as many as eight to ten contractions. In addition, the book claims that the time between contractions can vary from .8 seconds up to three minutes apart.In addition to vaginal contractions, the uterus also contracts during female orgasm.
There are conflicting theories about the purpose of this internal contraction. According to "The Science of Orgasm," one controversial theory is that this contraction produces an in-suck motion which pulls sperm into the uterus where it will follow the fallopian tube toward the ovulating egg and thus promoting conception. Muscles in the lower anus and pelvic area may contract as well.
Other bodily reactions include an increase in blood pressure as well as increased sensitivity to touch. However, as the contractions release the built up tension blood pressure slowly decreases again, the blood flow to the sex organs decreases and muscle tone relaxes. This marks the end of the orgasm.
According to Psychology Today, an online psychology resource, the female orgasm is surrounded in controversy as scientists and members of the medical field try and determine why women have orgasms. The male orgasm is obviously nature's way of initiating ejaculation and therefore promoting pregnancy. However, women can conceive without orgasm, and less than a century ago it was unheard of for women to even have an orgasm. Popular theories include the in-suck theory previously mentioned. Psychology Today also notes that orgasm may be nature's way of bonding a woman to her partner as well as ensuring the likelihood of future sexual encounters. Other theories assert that there are no other reasons for the female orgasm than pleasure.
eHow Article: How Female Orgasm Works
