The female orgasm is a phenomenon that has intrigued, mystified and been the object of intense study for centuries. We know so much about it already, but there are still some unbelievable facts that keep amazing us. From the hidden biological advantages of orgasm in women to its complex psychological triggers, here is a list of ten surprising facts about female climaxes that might shock and amaze you.
1. There is Such a Thing as Multiple Orgasms
Although multiple orgasms are believed to be more of a myth, some women can actually have several orgasms in a row without a refractory period. Whereas men usually require a refractory period to "recharge" after an orgasm, and thus cannot have additional orgasms within a short span of time. There is evidence to suggest as many as 15% of females have multiple orgasms, in other words at least two or more.
Interesting fact to take home: The clinical female orgasm world record is 134 in an hour!
2. Touchless Orgasms
Others are able to have orgasms without even being touched. Unlike most orgasms, these delightful bursts of pleasure are achieved mentally; with no pressure on erogenous zones. For a few, the thought of replicating sex is enough to make them cum.
Interesting Side Note: There are stories of people experiencing orgasims while meditating or in a hypnotic state!
3. Yes, there Really Are Exercise-Induced Orgasms
Have you heard of something called a "coregasm? Some women climax from doing certain types of physical exercises (particularly core workouts such as crunches or leg raises). That happens when our blood flows increase and muscle contracts after some stressful workouts.
Little-known fact: In a study, 10 percent of women were reported to orgasm or have sexual feelings during exercise.
4. Orgasms Boost Fertility in Women
Although the female orgasm is ostensibly not a biological necessity, various researchers have suggested that it may play a subtle role in fertility. The uterus contracts during orgasm, which might help to push the sperm toward the egg. While it's still up for debate, there is some evidence to suggest that orgasms could improve a woman's chances of conception.
FYI: The idea that a woman had to come in order for her to get pregnant was common in ancient cultures and stuck around for some 700+ years.
5. Orgasms Are Great Painkillers
Have you ever came up with a headache or cramps so that you could avoid sex? That might be worth reconsidering. Oxytocin and the endorphins are some of the natural painkillers released during orgasms. As a result, orgasms can reduce pain in cases like headaches, abdomen pains during menstruation, or discomfort caused by traumas.
Some women even say their migraines go away after an orgasm!
6. Sleep Orgasms Are A Thing.
Similar to how some men have nocturnal emissions, or "wet dreams," it turns out women can orgasm in their sleep too. These orgasms are referred to as nocturnal orgasms, and they are activated by erotic dreams or spontaneous physical arousal during REM sleep. This type of orgasm is generally thought to occur during specific sleep stages where the body is in a more sensitised state, which means women are more likely to reach climax without being aware.
Fact: Surveys have shown that almost 40% of women at one stage in their lives have an orgasm asleep.
7. Orgasm duration varies enormously
This is not true for women: the time it takes each woman to orgasm can vary greatly. There are women who have an orgasm within two minutes, while there are those who reach that point in 20-30 minutes, and even later. How quickly a woman comes has a lot more to do with state of mind, physical stimulation and comfort overall.
A little fun fact: research says that the average time it takes for a woman to peak during intercourse is 20 minutes, while its only about 4 minutes for men.
8. Some Women Do Not Orgasm from Penetrative Intercourse Alone
We are so incorrect if we think that the most important point about female orgasm is through vaginal penetration! The reality of it is that no more than 25% of women reliably achieve orgasm from penetration alone. A large percentage of women need clitoral stimulation to orgasm during intercourse and other forms of sex.
The next thing is very fun: The clitoris has over 8,000 nerve endings so it becomes the most sensitive area of a woman's body (twice as many as a penis!)
9. Orgasms Can Improve Mental Health
Orgasms have a range of mental health benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety to improving mood and sleep. The dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin released during climax act as a natural antidepressant, helping to lift spirits and promote a sense of well-being.
Fun fact: Regular orgasms have been shown to improve emotional resilience and reduce the risk of depression.
10. Orgasms Get Better with Age
Contrary to everything you've heard, there is no midnight on a woman's sex life and it sure as shit isn't in her 20s. It's true that getting older can have some major benefits; research shows that women, in particular, tend to report more orgasms and greater sexual satisfaction as they age. Having more sexual confidence, feeling better about your own body, or being in an intimate emotional relationship can all contribute to orgasms feeling more intense or enjoyable as we age.
Mature women frequently say that they are having the best orgasms ever during their 40s and 50’s — an indication that pleasure in the sack will continue to improve with age.
Final Thoughts
The female orgasm is a multi-layer and sophisticated issue that always surprises scientists and sexologists. From the possible fertility connection to the downright odd SCIENCE (YOU CAN JUST THINK AN ORGASM INTO HAPPENING, YOU GUYS) there's a whole lot about women's bodies that scientists and doctors still don't fully understand, and that mystery just makes them even more fascinating!
