Orgasm (sometimes referred to as “the big O”, coming or climaxing) is generally regarded as the highest point of sexual excitement; however, it has no single or overarching definition. It came from the Greek word “orgasmos” which means “swell” or “be excited”. This is usually achieved by stimulating the clitoris (female) or the penis (male).
Typically, the physical changes during orgasm include swelling of specific body parts such as the vulva, breasts, and penis, increased heart rate, and change of breathing pattern. For women, the genital muscles contract rhythmically (an estimate of 0.8 seconds apart). As compared to male orgasm, female orgasm usually lasts longer for around 13 to 51 seconds. There may be a noticeable gush or expulsion of fluid from the glands near the urethra (female ejaculation). Also, unlike males, females do not have a recovery or refractory period; hence, they may have more orgasms if further sexually stimulated. For men, the pelvic floor muscles and prostate gland contract which leads to ejaculation, the release of semen from the penis. This usually lasts for around 10 to 30 seconds.
Some women describe this intense sexually pleasurable experience as “electricity surging through my body”, “overwhelming warmth”, “being on top of a roller coaster”, and “an explosion”. Similarly, some men, describe it as “an electric buzz”, “getting to the top of a roller coaster”, “a moment in between falling asleep and waking up”, and “getting a cramp but in a good way.”