Orgasm - meaning and definition
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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
An orgasm is the peak of sexual response, usually felt as an intense release of built-up tension with rhythmic muscle contractions in the pelvic area, followed by relaxation.
At a glance
- An orgasm is the peak of sexual response, usually followed by relaxation.
- It often involves rhythmic pelvic muscle contractions and changes in heart rate and breathing.
- Hormones such as oxytocin and endorphins are released.
- In people with a penis, orgasm and ejaculation usually happen together but can occur separately.
- Not reaching orgasm, or only in certain circumstances, is very common.
In detail
Orgasms feel different for different people and from one time to the next. They can involve changes in heart rate, breathing and muscle tension, and the release of hormones such as oxytocin and endorphins. In people with a penis, orgasm usually happens together with ejaculation, but the two can occur separately.
Not reaching orgasm, or only in certain circumstances, is very common and not a sign that something is wrong. When it causes distress, the difficulty is sometimes called anorgasmia, and education, communication, sex therapy or medical review can help.
In a sentence
- The book explains that orgasms can feel different from one time to the next.
- In therapy, they discussed why reaching orgasm had become harder during a stressful year.
Where the word comes from
From Greek orgasmos, from organ, meaning to swell or be excited. It came into English via French and Latin.
Common questions
Is it normal not to have an orgasm?
Yes. Not reaching orgasm, or only in certain circumstances, is very common and not a sign that something is wrong. If it causes distress, education, communication, sex therapy or a medical review can help.
Are orgasm and ejaculation the same thing?
No. In people with a penis they usually happen together, but they are separate processes and can occur on their own.
Related terms
Sources
- Planned ParenthoodSex and Pleasure
- ACOGFemale Sexual Dysfunction