What Really Happens to Your Brain During an Orgasm?

Описание: #orgasm #DidYouKnow #SexualHealth #SexualWellness
#SantéSexuelle

During an orgasm, your brain undergoes a complex and fascinating series of changes—biochemical, neurological, and emotional. Here's a breakdown of what really happens:

*1. A Surge of Neurotransmitters*

When you approach orgasm, your brain floods with several key chemicals:

**Dopamine**: This “pleasure” neurotransmitter spikes dramatically, especially in the brain's reward system (nucleus accumbens), reinforcing the behavior.
**Oxytocin**: Sometimes called the "cuddle hormone," oxytocin is released during orgasm, especially in people with uteruses. It promotes bonding and feelings of intimacy.
**Serotonin**: Levels can rise post-orgasm, helping induce feelings of calm, satisfaction, and well-being.
**Endorphins**: These natural painkillers and mood elevators are released, adding to the feeling of euphoria.

*2. Brain Regions Go Wild—or Go Quiet*

During orgasm, some areas of the brain are highly active, while others actually shut down:

**Prefrontal cortex (self-control and decision-making)**: Activity here **decreases**, which is part of why orgasm can feel like a loss of control or release.
**Amygdala (fear and anxiety)**: Also goes quiet, reducing fear and inhibition.
**Cerebellum and hypothalamus**: These areas become **very active**, coordinating muscle contractions and autonomic processes like heart rate and breathing.

For people with penises, the *ventral tegmental area (VTA)* and *substantia nigra* (both part of the brain's reward system) light up. For people with vulvas, brain scans show almost the *entire brain* lighting up during climax, including the emotional, sensory, and motor systems.

*3. Physical Reflexes and Muscle Contractions*

The brain sends signals down the spinal cord, triggering rhythmic muscle contractions in the pelvic floor and genitals. These are partly involuntary and coordinated by the **autonomic nervous system**—specifically the **sympathetic branch**, which also governs fight-or-flight responses.

*4. A Temporary State of "Altered Consciousness"*

The combination of high dopamine, endorphins, and reduced activity in the thinking parts of the brain can create a **temporary state similar to a trance or meditative experience**. Some people describe it as an out-of-body sensation or momentary ego dissolution.

*5. The Afterglow (and Refractory Period)*

After orgasm:

*Prolactin* levels rise, which is associated with sexual satisfaction and the refractory period (especially in men, where it can inhibit further sexual arousal for a time).
A *wave of serotonin* helps promote calm and sleepiness.
Oxytocin and vasopressin may foster post-coital bonding.

‪@raoufhealth‬