Elephants and Tea - March 2022 - 10

Sexuality INTIMATE ISSUES WITH MARLOE
Orgasms After Cancer
(PART I)
UNDERSTANDING THE " O " IN " OMG! "
MARLOE ESCH, BSN, RN, OCN, CSC
A
10
s if all the other side effects from cancer treatment aren't bad
enough, survivors can also experience frustrating changes in
their sex lives, including newly altered (or absent!) orgasms.
Why does this happen, and what can be done?
These two important questions call for a two-part answer!
That's because before we can talk about some ideas for
strengthening or rediscovering your orgasm game, I think
it's helpful to understand a little bit more about orgasms in
general. After all, it seems that this component of sexual
response is rather shrouded in mystery and pretty misunderstood
- especially for all the ladies out there.
If you have a vulva, or you are the sexual partner of someone who
has a vulva, learning about the what, why, and how of orgasms (Part
I) can de-mystify their existence and shed some light on how to take
charge of more pleasurable sexual experiences (Part II).
So, let's get started with some of the basics, shall we?
WHAT ARE ORGASMS?
An orgasm is a physiological reflex that can occur with sexual stimulation,
and it is typically perceived as intensely pleasurable. The reflex
consists of involuntary rhythmic muscle contractions of the uterus and
pelvic floor (the muscles around the vagina, anus, and urethra)7
with the release of a cocktail of feel-good chemicals in the brain2,12
, along
.
The subjective sensation associated with an orgasm experience is often
described as a peak of built-up tension radiating throughout the genitals
and/or the body. There can be a continuum of intensity, with some
orgasms feeling mind-blowing and others feeling like gentler, more subtle
ripples or waves of pleasure.
HOW DO ORGASMS HAPPEN?
When activated, sensory nerves located in the genitals send messages
to the brain for interpretation, and autonomic nerves tell the body to
respond with physiological changes like increased blood flow7
. If the
DISCLAIMER
ELEPHANTSANDTEA.COM
MARCH 2022
This information is not a substitute for medical care. Always inform your healthcare team of any
concerning symptoms you are experiencing, and consult with your provider before starting new
treatments, therapies, or health routines.

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