Definition of Orgasm

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Orgasm: The climax of coitus, consisting of a series of involuntary muscle contractions in the anus, lower pelvic muscles, and sexual organs, accompanied by a sudden release of endorphins providing a feeling of euphoria.

In the male, orgasm involves rapid rhythmic contractions of the prostate, urethra and the muscles at the base of the penis, resulting in the ejaculation of semen through the urethral opening of the penis. The process takes 3 to 10 seconds. It is possible to ejaculate without reaching orgasm, and to have an orgasm without ejaculation. After an orgasm, males have a refractory period occurs during which another orgasm cannot occur.

In the female, orgasm is preceded by moistening of the vaginal walls and enlargement of the clitoris. The clitoris moves inward under the clitoral hood. The vagina decreases in size by about a third. There are rhythmic contractions of the uterus, vagina and pelvic muscles. After orgasm, the clitoris emerges from under the clitoral hood and returns to normal size. Women do not have a refractory period during which they cannot have another orgasm.

The word orgasm comes from the Greek orgainein meaning to swell, as to swell with lust.