Are you having trouble reaching orgasm? If you do, you are not alone. Studies have shown 10-40% of women report difficulty or inability to orgasm.
What is an orgasm?
An orgasm is an intense, pleasurable experience brought on by stimulation during sexual arousal. During arousal, blood flow increases which causes vaginal engorgement and clitoral erection. When an orgasm occurs, the brain sends signals to the pelvic floor muscles to reflexively contract.
How do women orgasm?
Most women cannot orgasm with vaginal penetration alone. 75% of women also need direct clitoral stimulation to achieve an orgasm. The female anatomy does not allow for adequate stimulation of the clitoris during vaginal penetration.
For the other 25% who can orgasm with vaginal penetration, clitoral stimulation during vaginal intercourse may be possible due to how closely the clitoral glans and shaft are positioned relative to the vaginal opening. This increases the chances of the penis stimulating the clitoris during penetration.
What are some reasons why some women have trouble or inability to reach orgasm?
A small percentage of women have never reached orgasm, but most are physically able to do so. Common causes for difficulty reaching orgasm can be physical and/or emotional. As pelvic floor physical therapists, we take care of the physical. To address any emotional issues, we refer patients to other experts. A team approach is crucial to address sexual dysfunction.
What do pelvic floor physical therapists have to do with orgasms?
Your ability to orgasm directly correlates with the strength of your pelvic floor muscles. This is because during an orgasm, the pelvic floor muscles contract reflexively.
Weak pelvic floor muscles = Weak orgasms or inability to orgasm.
This doesn’t mean you should go and do a hundred Kegels. Pelvic floor muscles that are too tight can also cause pelvic floor and sexual dysfunction. This is why it is SO important to get evaluated by a pelvic floor physical therapist to come up with an individualized treatment plan.
So, if you want to have better orgasms, see a pelvic floor physical therapist.
Great post! I think this is talked about way too little!
Thank you so much. And yes, we agree!
Very interesting blog. Thanks for sharing!🌸
Thank you for reading! 🙂
After 4 kids and 3 surgeries, my pelvic floor is shot! However, my hubby does his job well!
Haha love it!