The Gender Gap in Partnered Orgasm: A Scoping Review of Evidence with Graphical Comparisons.

Area of Science:

• Sexuality and Human Behavior
• Social Psychology
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• The orgasm gap, a disparity in orgasm rates between men and women during heterosexual intercourse, has been a subject of extensive research.
• Previous studies have utilized various methodologies to measure orgasm occurrence and frequency, leading to a complex landscape of findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and visualize 30 years of research on the orgasm gap in heterosexual encounters.
• To compare measurement techniques and summarize orgasm rate disparities across different sexual behaviors and social contexts.
• To identify key factors contributing to the orgasm gap.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and visualization of existing scientific literature over the past three decades.
• Comparative analysis of methodologies used to measure orgasm occurrence and frequency.
• Synthesis of findings regarding orgasm rates across diverse behavioral sets and social contexts.

Main Results:

• Women's orgasm rates significantly increase with the inclusion of direct clitoral stimulation, indicating social dynamics play a crucial role.
• The orgasm gap is more pronounced in relationships with less sexual experience, partner familiarity, and commitment.
• Women report higher orgasm rates during masturbation or partnered sex with women compared to heterosexual encounters.

Conclusions:

• The orgasm gap is primarily a social phenomenon, influenced by behavioral and contextual factors, rather than solely biological differences.
• A biopsychosocial approach is essential for understanding and enhancing sexual enjoyment and well-being.
• Future research should focus on precise measurement, diverse sampling, and life course trajectories to further elucidate sexual satisfaction disparities.