The sexual response cycle encompasses the sequence of physical and emotional changes that occur as a person becomes sexually aroused and engages in sexually stimulating activities, including intercourse and masturbation. Understanding how your body responds during each phase can enhance your relationship and help identify any sexual issues.

Phases of the Sexual Response Cycle

The sexual response cycle consists of four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. Both men and women experience these phases, though the timing and intensity can vary. Recognizing these differences can help partners better understand each other’s bodies and enhance the sexual experience.

Phase 1: Excitement

The excitement phase, lasting from a few minutes to several hours, is characterized by:

• Increased muscle tension
• Accelerated heart rate and breathing
• Flushed skin (red blotches on chest and back)
• Hardened or erect nipples
• Increased blood flow to the genitals, resulting in swelling of the woman’s clitoris and labia minora, and erection of the man’s penis
• Vaginal lubrication begins
• Fuller breasts and swelling vaginal walls in women
• Swelling testicles, tightening scrotum, and secretion of lubricating liquid in men

Phase 2: Plateau

In the plateau phase, extending to the brink of orgasm, the changes from phase 1 intensify:

• Continued swelling of the vagina with darkening of the vaginal walls
• Increased sensitivity of the clitoris, retracting under the clitoral hood
• Tightening testicles
• Increased breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure
• Muscle spasms in feet, face, and hands
• Increased muscle tension

Phase 3: Orgasm

The orgasm phase, the climax of the cycle, lasts only a few seconds and is characterized by:

• Involuntary muscle contractions
• Peak blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing
• Muscle spasms in feet
• Sudden release of sexual tension
• Rhythmic contractions of vaginal muscles and uterus in women
• Rhythmic contractions at the base of the penis and ejaculation of semen in men
• Possible “sex flush” over the body

Phase 4: Resolution

In the resolution phase, the body gradually returns to its normal state:

• Swelled and erect body parts return to their previous size and color
• General sense of well-being, enhanced intimacy, and often fatigue
• Women may quickly return to the orgasm phase with further stimulation and can experience multiple orgasms
• Men require a refractory period after orgasm, during which they cannot reach orgasm again. This period varies in length and typically increases with age.