AKA: climax, coming, the big O, the crucial moment, peak of sexual pleasure.
What is it?
An orgasm is a peak of pleasurable sensation. Sexual tension builds up when we get aroused (turned on). The tension is released during an orgasm, when the muscles in and around the
vagina
rhythmically contract.
No two orgasms are exactly the same. They differ between women and from one time to the next.
Plus there’s loads of fun to be had without one - they’re not essential for sexual satisfaction. So don’t beat yourself up struggling to get there.
Many people experience their first (and then their best) orgasms through masturbation.
Is it the same for boys?
When boys have an orgasm they usually ejaculate sperm (see the penis factfile for more) but the pleasurable feelings are very similar.
Boys usually find it easier to come during
sex
than girls, who often need to have their
clitoris
stimulated in order to reach orgasm.
Do girls ejaculate?
Some women find they suddenly get wetter during an orgasm, even feeling a gush of fluid from their vagina. The jury’s out as to the contents of the fluid. For some, it is a spurt of wee.
For others, it is vaginal secretions that have built up in the vagina and then get squeezed out by the muscular contractions of an orgasm.
Most women don’t noticeably ejaculate in this way - though sex is a messy squelchy business for everyone.
What are multiple orgasms?
A multiple orgasm is when someone comes more than once in a short time. It can mean having one orgasm immediately after another, or after a quick break.
It’s more common for girls to experience multiple orgasms than boys, as boys' bodies usually take longer to recover enough for a second orgasm.
Further help and advice
• bbc.co.uk/health/sex
REMEMBER: Sex under 16 is illegal
Disclaimer: the BBC can't be held responsible for the content of external websites.
Pictures posed by models.
