Let’s begin our deep dive into the refractory period by discussing the four main phases of the sexual cycle.
The first of four phases of the sexual cycle begins with excitement. Excitement is when men produce an erection, or when women create vaginal lubrication. The next phase is known as the plateau, which is an amplified version of the excitement phase. This is then followed by the third phase, orgasm, and the last phase, resolution – when the increased blood flow to and from the genital area subsides and goes back to normal.
The refractory period happens during the resolution phase, meaning an individual cannot produce another orgasm until the resolution phase ends. The refractory period’s length of duration varies between men subjectively.
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How do males experience the refractory period?
If you were born with a penis, you might be familiar with the feeling of needing some time to catch your breath and regain composure after experiencing an orgasm.
Men ejaculate once before their erections subside. When they enter the refractory period, men find it physically impossible to produce an erection, and it’s a time when the body doesn’t respond well, if at all, to sexual stimulation.
Be that as it may, there has been yet little research done on why the refractory period occurs. A minuscule study pins the blame on a hormone known as prolactin. Upon ejaculation, the brain releases this hormone that makes men feel satisfied. However, in that study, an individual’s prolactin levels remained the same after experiencing an orgasm. The participant was the lone (and rare) participant who could experience multiple orgasms.
Prolactin can also be released by women upon orgasm. High levels of this hormone can reduce a woman’s sexual function, but the female refractory period is quite different from that of males. The duration of the refractory period in men varies widely. Some men need just several minutes, while others need hours to recover from the refractory period. It is rare to find men who can physically achieve several to multiple orgasms.
Thus far, more research is needed to determine if the refractory period is caused by one or more physiological factors.
How do females experience the refractory period?
The refractory period in women can be substantially shorter compared to men. Women may become aroused and even produce succeeding orgasms shortly after the last one. This is why women can achieve multiple orgasms in just a few moments of recovery time.
Unfortunately, there has been precious little research conducted on the refractory period, and most studies were focused on male subjects. More research is needed to gain a better understanding of the refractory period’s effects on women.
Does age affect the refractory period?
People’s levels of sexual desire, libido, and sexual cycles change over time. As men age, it can get harder for them to produce and keep an erection. Women, on the other hand, may find it more difficult to produce vaginal lubrication as they age, particularly when they reach menopause.
Such biological changes, not to mention any other changes in a relationship, lead to a longer refractory period.
What other factors affect the refractory period?
These three factors may affect your refractory period:
- Your overall cardiovascular health. Cardiovascular health plays a key role in sexual health, particularly when it comes to your erection quality and refractory period. If you’re in good cardiovascular health and your heart and blood vessels are firing on all cylinders, there’s a greater likelihood that your blood is getting to where it needs to be faster and flowing more readily. All of these are advantages in producing an erection, whether before or after an orgasm.
- Your relationship satisfaction or status. Refractory periods change from day to day in some men. If you aren’t sexually attracted to the individual you’re with right now, it might be hard for you to get aroused again after achieving an erection. If you’re someone you’re highly sexually compatible with, you might be able to overcome the refractory period sooner.
- Your libido levels. If you feel as though you’ve been having great sex, or if it’s been a long while since your last romp, you may experience a shorter refractory period than usual. You might not be as sexually aroused during a session or maybe you haven’t stuck to a suitable routine. These factors can vary a bit. Enjoying robust, vigorous sex doesn’t instantly mean you’ll experience shorter refractory periods.
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Is it possible to shorten the duration of the refractory period?
The following lifestyle changes may help reduce the duration of your refractory period:
- Getting adequate exercise
- Avoiding recreational drugs, tobacco, and alcohol
- Eating a well-balanced diet heavy on vegetables and fruit
- Keeping a healthy weight
Your erectile function is at its best when you’re in good health. Lifestyle changes that help achieve optimal cardiovascular health can help you reach your goals.
Your healthcare provider is the best source of information for any concerns you might have about your sexual health or refractory period. Also remember that many factors play into an enjoyable, healthy sex life––even something like a quick post-sex power nap can spell the difference between a great sex session or a bad one.
