Body & health

Arousal

Alsosexual arousalsexual excitementturned onbeing turned onaroused

Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.

Definition

Sexual arousal is the combination of mental excitement and physical changes, such as increased blood flow to the genitals, that happens in response to sexual thoughts or stimulation.

At a glance

  • Sexual arousal combines mental excitement with physical changes.
  • Physical signs can include a faster heartbeat, flushed skin, erection and vaginal lubrication.
  • Mental and physical arousal do not always line up.
  • A physical response is never the same as consent.
  • Arousal can be affected by stress, tiredness, medications, hormones, pain and relationship factors.

In detail

Physical signs can include a faster heartbeat and breathing, flushed skin, erection of the penis or clitoris, and vaginal lubrication. Mental arousal and physical arousal do not always line up; the body can respond without a person feeling desire, and the reverse is also common. A physical response is never the same as consent.

Arousal can be affected by stress, tiredness, medications, hormonal changes, pain and relationship factors. Difficulties becoming or staying aroused are common and treatable, and a clinician or sex therapist can help untangle the causes.

In a sentence

  • The sex education session stressed that a body's arousal response does not equal consent.
  • Her therapist explained that stress can make arousal harder for many people.

Not to be confused with

  • Consent

    Physical arousal does not mean someone wants or agrees to sexual activity.

Common questions

Does physical arousal mean someone wants sex?

No. The body can respond without a person feeling desire, and a physical response is never the same as consent. Consent is a clear, freely given agreement, and it can be withdrawn at any time.

Is it normal to have trouble becoming aroused?

Yes, difficulties with arousal are common and often linked to stress, tiredness, medications, hormonal changes, pain or relationship factors. They are treatable, and a clinician or sex therapist can help work out the causes.

Related terms

Sources

  1. ACOGFemale Sexual Dysfunction
  2. Planned ParenthoodSex and Pleasure