Neurologist breaks down what happens in your brain when you orgasm

For those of us who have experienced orgasms (the orgasm gap still very much exists), we’re pretty familiar with what happens in our bodies. 

It’s a slow and steady buildup and then finally an intense (or sometimes even tiny) release that feels pleasurable.

But have you ever wondered what happens inside your brain during this release? 

Neurologist Dr. Thompson Maesaka explains that it might be a little different than what we imagine.    

‘Contrary to the rest of the intercourse process, the orgasm is associated with a rapid shift out of the “rest and digest” response, which is active during sex, and into the “fight or flight” response,’ Dr. Thompson says. 

He says that the orgasm is also associated with steep increases in several neurotransmitters that regulate mood and connection.

The first neurotransmitter that peaks is one you’ve probably heard of: oxytocin. 

‘This is the chemical that helps us feel bonded to others,’ he explains.

Oxytocin is what helps create a strong bond between partners when you reach climax.  

Then of course, you have dopamine. 

This is the chemical that’s known as the primary reward – it gives your brain feedback that something was (and is) good.  

‘It happens when we eat foods we like, consume social media, accomplish tasks etc.,’ Dr. Thompsons says.

He then explains that there are two areas, known as the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens, that work together to make your dopamine spike really quickly. 

This usually reinforces that what you just experienced was pleasurable and that you should probably try and do it again. 

And then finely, there’s a last chemical known as vasopressin. 

This, Dr. Thompson explains, plays a key role in functions that work toward your body’s homeostasis.

Oxytocin plays a role in why you feel connected to your partner immediately after you orgasm (stock image)

Think things like fluid balance or water retention.

This same chemical also plays a role in creating social bonds.  

‘Following an orgasm, vasopressin spikes, and you may feel more bonded to your partner because of it,’ he says. 

And when it comes to your actual brain function during orgasm, let’s just say there’s not as much going on as you’d think. 

In fact, there’s this inhibition area of the brain called the orbitofrontal cortex. 

Dr. Thompson says that this region in the front of the frontal lobes is responsible for emotional regulation, impulse control, and decision making – it’s basically what keeps you in your senses. 

‘Interestingly enough, when you have an orgasm, this region is suppressed, leading people to do or say things they usually wouldn’t in the moment of passion,’ he says.

So if you’ve ever said something you really didn’t mean during the throes of passion, it’s not your fault – it’s just your brain ‘on orgasm.’