Your Body, Your Pleasure: Your Guide to the Female Orgasm

Compared to a man’s orgasm, the orgasm of a woman oftentimes takes the backseat in moments of intimacy. That’s wild, considering that the clitoris alone has 8,000 nerve endings, which is more than double that of a whole penis. So why is it that men always get their nut, and many women get swindled out of their big O? The truth is, the female anatomy is complicated. Though it may seem like a bummer when you end a romp sesh with a partner without a proper release, there are ways to take control of your orgasm by educating yourself on the ins and outs of your yoni. It’s time to stop settling for less than you deserve. This is your body, and you are in charge of your pleasure. Welcome to your personal guide to the female orgasm, where you’ll learn all about the benefits of the orgasm and what physical and mental changes take place. Knowledge is power, and with this information, you can feel in tune with the sensations of your body and sink into the deepest climax of your life. 

What happens during an orgasm? 

Of course, we all know an orgasm feels absolutely cosmic, but what many of us don’t know is what is actually taking place within the body. So, let’s break it down!  There are many physical indicators you may have noticed when you’re about to orgasm or during your release, such as increased heart rate, muscle contractions, and changes in breath. With increased heart rate comes high blood pressure and changes in respiratory breathing, but don’t worry, it’s only temporary! The involuntary muscle contractions are located anywhere between the pelvic bone and tailbone and can feel like a pulsing sensation. All of these physical reactions are paired with hormonal changes to create pleasure.  The brain is really the ringleader when it comes to the female orgasm. During climax, the hypothalamus releases the “love hormone” oxytocin, which then stimulates the uterus to contract. At the same time, the part of the brain called the nucleus accumbens is fired up, releasing dopamine. This section of your Thinker plays a key role in reward, motivation, addiction, pain, and more. Other natural “feel-good” endorphins are also released during orgasm, as well as prolactin, which is the hormone responsible for milk production postpartum. However, in the case of an orgasm, prolactin helps the body and mind feel satisfaction.  The activity in the brain increases just before an orgasm, peaks, and then decreases. The increase can feel similar to a surge of adrenaline, while the peak feels euphoric, and the decrease leaves you limp-bodied and relaxed. And although there is such a spotlight around a vaginal orgasm, a clitorial orgasm can feel just as heavenly, and the brain and body respond the same. 

What does an orgasm feel like? 

A female orgasm can be described in many different ways, and truly, it depends on who you ask. But the typical responses usually convey the feeling of a sudden and intense pleasure. This pleasure is usually accompanied by tingling and warmth, as well as the muscle contractions caused by the hormonal changes in the brain paired with physical stimulation.  It’s important to note that orgasms can feel different for everyone because, as humans, we are all different. But even the same woman can feel orgasms differently depending on how she is being stimulated at the time of climax. For example, a woman’s vaginal orgasm can feel totally different from an orgasm where her nipples, clitoris, or anus are the focus. 

Benefits of Orgasming 

Regular orgasms have many physical and mental health benefits, such as:

• Improved sleep
• Stress relief
• Stronger immune function
• Increased focus
• Better self-esteem
• Less breakouts
• Pain relief

Orgasming regularly can also contribute to a stronger pelvic floor, which is important for a variety of reasons, including core stability, sexual function, reduced risk of injury, and bladder control. 

Can’t orgasm? 

If you’ve never experienced the mindblowing sensation of an orgasm, there may be a deeper reason than you just don’t know how to get yourself there. Female orgasmic disorder, also known as anorgasmia, is a condition in which it’s impossible for a woman to reach climax, or if she does then it is delayed or less intense than it should be.  Female orgasmic disorder is categorized into primary anorgasmia, meaning the woman has never experienced an orgasm, and secondary anorgasmia, which is when a woman used to experience orgasms and no longer does. Research shows that this disorder may be more common in younger women or women who don’t have a lot of sexual experience.  However, just because you haven’t experienced an orgasm or having trouble getting there doesn’t mean that you’re suffering from anorgasmia. Other factors could be blocking you either physically or mentally from achieving the big O.  Some of these factors include:

• Current medications
• Hormonal changes
• Pain during sex
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Depression
• Sexual trauma
• Body image concerns
• Cultural or religious influences
• Fatigue
• Issues with your partner
• Shyness

A lack of knowledge can also halt an orgasm, so it’s important to read up on your body and educate yourself about its features and functions so that you can indulge in its sweet rewards. If you’re having difficulty having an orgasm, talking with a healthcare professional or therapist may help you find answers to remedy the situation. 

The Bottom Line 

When it comes down to it, self-exploration, along with open communication with your sexual partners, is key to a killer orgasm and overall sexual experience. Feeling safe and supported in sexual situations is a must to let your body relax enough to reach its peak.  Getting to your orgasm should be fun. Making it the main focus throughout your sexual encounters can put too much pressure on the situation. By embracing your sexuality and taking the time to enjoy each and every sensation, you’ll slowly start to discover your own unique pleasure, and that is what we can orgasmic magic.