All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
When youre havingsex, you’re unwittingly reaping the benefits of your sexual response cycle.
Henrik Sorensen / Sciepro / Getty
This process is known as the sexual response cycle.
So does your breathing.
You might start to notice your skin flushing in areas like your chest and back.
(This is fittingly called a sex flush.)
“Your body releases more nitric oxide, says Dr. Abdur-Rahman.
First up: the phenomenon sometimes called tenting, which is when your vagina dilates.
This can make it more sensitive to stimulation.
Yourlabia minora(inner vaginal lips) also swell with extra blood.
As do your vaginal walls.
(Sensing a pattern here?)
Also due to that excess blood flow, yournipplesmay become erect and feel more sensitive.
Your muscles start tensing up in the buildup to eventualorgasmand the resulting physical release.
Phase 2: Arousal (Sexual stimulation starts to feel even better.)
This issometimes known as the plateau phase, which isnt as boring as it sounds, we promise.
Yourvaginais undergoing some seriously incredible changes, like your vaginal walls turning a deep purple color.
Your muscles tense up even more….
16.
Your clitoris is becoming even more sensitive than it was before.
Knowing what’s good for it, it retracts under your clitoral hood to avoid becoming overstimulated.
Phase 3: Orgasm (You come.
Its all good.)
Aaand we’re here.
Of course,sexcan still be great even if you dont orgasm.
Sometimes it can be frustrating if you dont orgasm.
Sometimes it can even be both.
If youdoclimax, everything basically goes off the rails physiologically in the best way possible.
Your heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure hit the ceiling.
Each one peaks in a way it doesnt at any other point duringsex.
“There’s a big increase in the production of oxytocin,” says Dr. Abdur-Rahman.
Oxytocin is a neurotransmitter related to, no surprise, increased feelings of pleasure and bonding.
Your muscles are convulsinghard.
Phase 4: Resolution (You snuggle, fall asleep, or go again.)
Excellent job, team!
Here’s what happens in the comedown phase of sex.
You might be able to reach orgasm again quickly, theCleveland Clinicexplains.
Time for round two?
