4 common myths about orgasms (And what to know, instead)
The orgasm — also known as the climax, the Big O. While you may know what an orgasm feels like, how what do you really know about the incredible phenomenon?
“Blood pressure is lower after an orgasm, endorphins released help with pain [this includes period pain] and sleep is often improved. Many people use orgasm to regulate their mood and stress because of the calming chemicals it releases,” one recent Telegraph article says.
Aside from the rush of feel-good chemicals that overcome the body, what should you know about an orgasm? What kind are there? Who can have them? We’re here to break down some of the most interesting orgasm facts, as well as the science behind them, below.
The Science Behind Orgasms: Exploring the Physiology
There is science behind orgasms; after all, it is your body's response to some sort of stimuli, either physical touch or even mental stimulation in some cases. Just like any scientific equation, many factors can impact the quality of your orgasm.
According to ScienceDirect, “Orgasm is a sensory phenomenon occurring in the cerebral cortex in association with the ejaculatory reflex, which involves a complex interplay of somatic and autonomic nervous system pathways.”
Health Benefits of Orgasms: What Research Says
Sure, orgasms feel great, but that’s not the only reason you may want to have as many as possible. One of our favorite orgasm facts is that there are health benefits to having one.
The International Headache Society reported that 60% of people suffering from a migraine reported some or complete relief after having an orgasm. Orgasms can even regulate anxiety, as well as reduce the risk of certain diseases like heart disease and cancer. Plus, if you’re looking to improve your sleep quality, an orgasm can do that, too.
What Hormone Is Released During An Orgasm?
All of these health benefits have a lot to do with the fact that an orgasm causes the release of oxytocin, a powerful hormone with strong ties to health benefits. Oxytocin actually works as a natural painkiller. In fact, researchers found the threshold for pain increases by a whopping 75% during orgasm.
Does gender make a difference? Male orgasm facts vs female orgasm facts
Female and male orgasm facts are fairly similar. Both genders experience a comparable feeling during orgasm, but there are some differences, including the duration of an orgasm and how long it takes to reach climax.
It’s a female orgasm fact that physiological factors are more likely to disrupt peak pleasure when compared to the male orgasm. In addition, men typically ejaculate during orgasm, while women experience momentary muscular contractions. That’s not to say females don’t ejaculate because some women do.
The Evolutionary Purpose of Orgasms
So why did nature equip us with the beautiful ability to orgasm? According to the evolutionary behaviorist perspective, orgasms offer a natural way to promote the body to reproduce; after all, without reproduction, humans would die out.
Tip for Achieving Better Orgasms
Want to know our number one tip for reaching better-quality orgasms? Use a vibrator! The Bloomi Play Mini Vibrator ($35) is a compact, handheld vibrator with the power to add even more pleasure to each climax. Plus, using a vibrator can make it easier to achieve orgasm - alone or with a partner.
Do you prefer internal stimulation to climax? Bloomi Indulge Double-Sided Vibrator ($60) is specially designed for external and internal pleasure. Targeting everything from your clitoris (external) to the G-spot and P-spot (internal).
The Link Between Orgasms And Relationships
While vibrators are often associated with solo masturbating, they are highly recommended for couples to use together since they improve the likelihood and quality of orgasm. Research has found a correlation between couples who experience orgasm together and those with a stronger and more attached bond.
The Bloomi Caress Full-Body Massager ($65) is a great addition to the bedroom for couples. You can kick off foreplay by giving each other body massages before moving the sensual vibrator to more intimate regions. Plus, the non-vibrating side offers the perfect tool for internal stimulation.
4 Common Myths About Orgasms
Myth #1: Everyone reaches orgasm through vaginal penetration.
It is very common to require additional stimulation in order to reach orgasm. Hence why so many people rave about pairing a vibrator for external stimulation with vaginal or anal penetration.
Myth #2: Masturbation messes up sexual orgasms.
This is not true at all! Quite the opposite, masturbation helps you get to know yourself and what gets you off, leading to better sexual encounters.
Myth #3: Orgasms are the be-all and end-all of sex.
Sex unites two people and brings them closer together, and it can be full of fun, with or without an orgasm. Think of the orgasm as the cherry on top of a sundae; it is absolutely delicious, but a sundae can still be great without the cherry.
Myth #4: All orgasms feel the same.
The truth is that no two orgasms are the same. What an orgasm feels like can vary individually and even situationally.
6 Different Types of Orgasms
You might be surprised to discover just how many different types of orgasms there are. Different types of orgasms can change what an orgasm feels like, as well as how it’s achieved. Here’s an overview of the most common types.
Vaginal orgasm: This type of orgasm results from interior vaginal stimulation. According to the American Psychological Association, vaginal orgasms are still created by indirect stimulation of the clitoris.
Clitoral orgasm: This type of orgasm results from stimulating the exterior clitoris, the source of 60% of female orgasms.
Blended orgasm: The combination of clitoral and vaginal orgasms.
G-Spot orgasm: An orgasm that results from stimulating the G-spot, located at the top or front of the anterior wall of the vagina.
Anal orgasm: Orgasm sparked by anal stimulation.
Nipple orgasm: Stimulating the nipples sparks the part of the brain linked to genital stimulation, thus packing the power to push one into orgasm ecstasy.
Multiple orgasms: It is possible to have multiple orgasms simultaneously, although this is more common for women than it is for men.
Imagery-induced orgasm: No touching or physical stimulation is required at all to reach orgasm. Research has found that simply thinking about sexually charged material can spark one to climax.
What Is Orgasmic Dysfunction and How Is It Treated?
When a person struggles to or cannot reach orgasm when sexually excited, it is referred to as Orgasmic dysfunction. According to MedlinePlus, 10 to 15 percent of women have never reached orgasm — but it doesn’t mean it’s too late to have one if you want one. Additionally, 50 percent of women are not satisfied with how often they reach orgasm. A host of factors can contribute to orgasmic dysfunction, including:
A history of sexual abuse
Fatigue, stress, and depression
Negative emotions towards sex (can be learned in earlier years)
Lack of understanding or knowledge about sexual function
Issues with partner
Lack of confidence to get what one desires
In addition, certain health problems can hinder one’s ability to reach orgasm. For instance, if you are taking certain medications or have a hormonal imbalance or disorder, such as menopause. Certain chronic illnesses can also affect sexual interest.
Treatment for orgasmic dysfunction includes adopting an open mind towards sex and receiving education about sexual stimulation and response. In addition, working on your own mental and physical health may help tremendously.
Bloomi Is Here To Help You Achieve Better Orgasms
We welcome you to start enjoying more orgasms by adding some new toys to your collection! For starters, people are raving about Bloomi’s handheld Massage Clitoral Vibrator ($45), perfectly designed for utmost pleasure. The science of orgasms tells us that orgasms are good for the body and mind, so treat yourself; you deserve it.