What is an orgasm?

We've all heard the term orgasms before, but what exactly does it mean? Is it something only women experience or men too? And why do some people say they don't get them at all?

The word orgasm comes from the Greek word meaning 'to bring forth' or 'to cause to come'. In other words, it refers to the release of sexual tension during sex.

It's true that everyone experiences orgasms differently, depending on their gender and personal preferences. Some people might even describe theirs as being "mind blowing". Others might call them "the ultimate high", "a rush of energy", or "an explosion of pleasure".

Experience of orgasm

Is it something that happens only during sex or does it happen at other times too?

An orgasm is a pleasurable feeling experienced from sexual stimulation. This sensation usually occurs after arousal has taken place. The word comes from the Latin verb 'orgasmat', at', meaning 'to swell'. An orgasm is also known as ejaculation.

Orgasms are often described as being very intense, powerful feelings that last between five seconds and several minutes. They are caused by nerve signals travelling through the body, causing muscles to contract and relax. Orgasms are sometimes called female orgasms because they tend to occur more frequently in women than men.

Many women claim they don't orgasm during sex, but some men say they've never experienced one either. What's going on? Is orgasming even possible?

Some experts believe that women experience multiple orgasms because their bodies produce more oxytocin (a hormone) after each climax.

According to a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, only 15% of women reported having had at least one full-body orgasm during intercourse. Most women said they didn't reach orgasm during vaginal penetration alone. Instead, they reached orgasm through clitoral stimulation or oral sex.

Over the next few weeks we will discussing what types of orgasms their are and how to help facilitate achieving an orgasm.