A study from the United Kingdom Millennium Cohort found that those who reported having had an orgasm during sex were twice as likely to report an excellent or very good quality of sexual relationship compared to those who had not orgasmed.
The study, published in the British Medical Journal in 2010, followed a sample of 49,066 men and women aged 16-64 for six years. During that time, 2,939 participants (6.3 percent) had an orgasm or climax. Of those, 336 (12.0 percent) reported frequently experiencing an orgasm during sex. This group was then compared to a control group who had not reported an orgasm during sex. Those who had experienced an orgasm were more likely to report having very good or excellent quality sexual experiences compared to the control group. However, frequency of orgasms did not influence the quality of sexual experiences.
“Having an orgasm during sex seems to be a key indicator of a good sexual relationship,” said study author Dr. Stephen Parkinson from the University of Cambridge. “The more you have the better, but it doesn’t seem to be about how often you have it. It seems to be a key indicator of a good sexual experience.”
The findings from the study agree with other recent research that has shown having a sexual climax (also known as an orgasm) may be linked to increased levels of intimacy and closeness in a relationship. “After orgasm, the woman is more likely to be receptive to sexual advances and more likely to enjoy sex with her partner. This may make it more likely that she will engage in sexual intercourse,” stated sexual health expert Elle MacLeman in a 2005 interview with Wellness Magazine.
How Does Orgasm Work?
Orgasm is the climax or the peak of sexual pleasure. It is typically described as the combined sensations of physical and emotional pleasure that results from sexual activity.
While there are many definitions of orgasm, there is general agreement that it is a pleasurable experience that is often tied to female sexual arousal. In many cases, women experience orgasm during intercourse, or during some other form of sexual activity with a partner. This can be due to the male hormone testosterone, which causes a narrowing of the blood vessels in the pelvic region. As a result, blood is able to flow more freely into the genitals, increasing the chances of female arousal.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists explains that during orgasm, muscles in the pelvic area tighten, which can cause the penis to become engorged with blood. This results in an erection, which is why many people describe orgasms as “hitting” or “coming” with a “boner”.
However, not all orgasms are created equal. Sometimes there is nothing but a subjective feeling of pleasure, not necessarily linked to any physical responses. Whether or not you experience physical pleasure during orgasm is entirely dependent on the type of activity you are engaged in and the setting in which it takes place.
Why Is Orgasm Important?
The importance of orgasms in relationships is undeniable. “Orgasmic women are typically more relaxed and comfortable with their bodies. They are also more open to new experiences and opportunities. This can make them better lovers and better partners,” explained MacLeman.
However, the specifics of how orgasmic women differ from other women is not completely understood. “Some studies have shown that women who experience frequent orgasms are generally more attractive to men and are seen as more feminine and vulnerable,” said Parkinson. “There doesn’t seem to be any studies that have looked at whether or not men find these women more attractive. It is possible that these women’s willingness to engage in sexual activity and pleasure makes them more attractive to men.”
Many people can achieve orgasm through self-pleasuring or solo sex. Whether or not this is pleasurable for you is purely subjective. For women, it can be an extremely sensual experience that often results in a complete relaxation and catharsis. For men, whose orgasms are typically stronger and more consistent, it can be a satisfying and integral part of their sexual interactions.
Orgasm is an important part of sexual intimacy and a good indication of satisfaction from sex. Women should not feel ashamed or guilty about wanting or enjoying orgasms. As long as they are confident that their partners are happy to provide this type of experience, they should not feel that they are “hurting” their relationship by wanting to engage in sexual activity or satisfy their needs.