Vaginal response to clitoral stimulation: identification of the clitorovaginal reflex

To investigate the hypothesis that glans clitoris (GC) penile buffeting effects contraction of the vaginal musculature and seems to increase arousal of the penis during coitus.

The response of the vaginal wall to GC electrical and mechanical stimulation was recorded in 26 healthy women (aged 36.8 +/- 6.7 years). The test was repeated after individual anesthetization of the GC and vagina using lidocaine gel and after application of bland gel instead of lidocaine.

The 2 vaginal electrodes recorded, at rest, slow waves followed or superimposed by action potentials. Wave parameters were similar from the 2 electrodes. Electrical or mechanical GC stimulation effected a significant increase in vaginal electromyographic (EMG) activity and pressure (p < 0.01). GC stimulation, while the vagina or GC had been separately anesthetized, produced no significant change, but there was a response following application of bland gel.

GC stimulation effected an increase in vaginal EMG activity and pressure and presumably indicated vaginal wall contraction. This action seems to be a reflex and is mediated through the clitorovaginal excitatory reflex. Vaginal wall contraction during coitus appears to effect penile arousal and, consequently, female sexual stimulation.