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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
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Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Published on: April 17, 2019
Women's orgasm
Cindy M Meston1, Roy J Levin, Marca L Sipski
1Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, 78712, USA. meston@psy.utexas.edu
Annual Review of Sex Research
|August 18, 2006
Summary
Female orgasm is a complex peak sensation with physical and mental effects. While its exact triggers remain unclear, brain imaging shows specific areas activate during orgasm, and psychosocial factors play a role.
Area of Science:
- Human sexuality
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Female orgasm is a complex physiological and psychological event.
- It involves intense pleasure, altered consciousness, and physical responses.
- Understanding its triggers and contributing factors is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the physiological and neurological underpinnings of female orgasm.
- To identify factors influencing female orgasmic ability.
- To review current treatment approaches for anorgasmia.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on female orgasm.
- Analysis of brain imaging studies.
- Examination of psychosocial factors and clinical reports.
Main Results:
- Orgasm involves specific brain activations in areas like the hypothalamus and hippocampus.
- Psychosocial factors such as age, education, and relationship issues are associated with orgasmic ability.
- Orgasmic dysfunction is a common sexual problem for women.
Conclusions:
- The precise triggers for female orgasm are not fully understood.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy shows promise for treating anorgasmia.
- Currently, no pharmacological treatments are proven effective for enhancing female orgasmic function.
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