Men's Health

All About the Male Orgasm

February 7, 2024

For men, orgasms are often considered to be one of the most important moments of sex – if not the most important part. But, there’s more to the male orgasm than you’d think.

In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the male orgasm, including tips on how to make your orgasm feel that much better.

What Happens During an Orgasm? 

Orgasms are caused by the buildup of tension in the nerve cells. When that tension releases, you can experience an orgasm. 

For men, the muscles in the penis and anus may contract around once every second and heart and breathing rates may increase.

While orgasms can feel different for everyone, the typical experience is an intense feeling of pleasure in the genitals and throughout the body. 

Typically, this is the orgasm cycle:

  • Arousal and excitement: The erogenous zones of the body are stimulated, and tension begins to build in the genitals.

  • Plateau: Arousal increases and begins to level off.

  • Orgasm: Intense feelings of pleasure, if ejaculation is going to happen, this is when it would occur.

  • Refraction: Also referred to as the resolution, the refractory period is when arousal subsides. The head of the penis may feel more sensitive or uncomfortable to touch.

What are the Different Types of Orgasms?

There are two types of orgasms: ejaculatory or non-ejaculatory. They can also be referred to as dry or wet orgasms. 

Ejaculatory orgasms

These are wet orgasms. When the peak of pleasure is reached and the penis has been sufficiently stimulated, semen will ejaculate from the testes to the penis until outside of the body.

Non-ejaculatory orgasms

With dry orgasms, no semen is expelled from the penis. This does not mean that the penis was not sufficiently stimulated, or that you or your partner weren’t properly aroused, or indicate any type of problem. 

While some men say the orgasmic feeling is slightly decreased in this type of orgasm, other men prefer it. That’s because with a non-ejaculatory orgasm, men are able to have multiple orgasms. That’s right, women aren’t the only ones who can be multiorgasmic. 

While some men have mastered the art of controlling their ejaculation (or lack thereof), others have never experienced it. 

Schedule some one-on-one time with yourself to further explore your body and how you prefer to orgasm – and try not to be shy about sharing this newly found info with your partner. 

Are Ejaculation and Orgasms the Same?

While ejaculation and orgasms are often used synonymously, they’re not exactly the same. Ejaculation is the physical release of semen from the penis. 

An orgasm is the sudden discharge of accumulated sexual excitement during the sexual response cycle, resulting in rhythmic, involuntary muscular contractions in the pelvic region characterized by sexual pleasure. 

These can happen simultaneously, but sometimes orgasm will happen slightly before ejaculation, if ejaculation is going to occur. The orgasmic feeling typically continues during ejaculation and for a few seconds after. 

What Does an Orgasm Feel Like? 

Orgasms will be different for everyone, but they are usually described as a euphoric or overwhelming feeling of pleasure in the genitals and throughout the body. 

While some orgasms may be big and mind-blowing, not all orgasms are going to be life-shattering. But, this doesn’t mean you’re doing “it” wrong, or that your partner is. 

When orgasms aren’t as exciting as you’d expected, it can be due to a timing issue, not feeling connected to your partner or the moment, or even xx. Sometimes orgasms can be soft and gentle, so it all depends on how you and your partner are exploring each other’s bodies. 

How Can I Intensify My Orgasm?

There are several methods that men can try to intensify their orgasms. While results may vary for each individual, here are some techniques to consider:

Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles – also known as Kegel exercises – can increase the intensity of orgasms. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles used to control urination. Regular practice can lead to stronger contractions during orgasm, enhancing pleasure.

Edging involves intentionally delaying orgasm by stopping or reducing sexual stimulation when close to climax. This technique can build up sexual tension, leading to more intense orgasms when release finally occurs. Experimenting with different levels of arousal and approaching orgasm multiple times can heighten the experience.

Using sex toys can add variety and enhance stimulation. Devices like vibrators, penis rings, or prostate massagers can increase pleasure and intensity during sexual activity.

Exploring new techniques – such as varying pressure or speed during masturbation or sexual activity – can help discover what brings the most pleasure and intensity. Trying different hand movements, positions, or incorporating additional stimulation can lead to a more intense orgasm.

Openly communicating desires and fantasies with a partner can enhance sexual arousal and intensify orgasms. Engaging in extended foreplay, erotic talk, and focusing on various erogenous zones during sexual activity can heighten pleasure.

Being in a relaxed and present state of mind during sexual activity can enhance the intensity of orgasms. Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help reduce anxiety and increase overall sexual pleasure.

How Long Does an Orgasm Last? 

The duration of an orgasm varies person to person. On average, a male orgasm lasts somewhere between 10 to 30 seconds.

However, the overall experience and sensation may last longer, as it can involve pre-orgasmic sensations, buildup, and a post-orgasmic state. 

What Happens After an Orgasm?

After an orgasm, endorphins are released that often cause you to feel happy or relaxed. Of these endorphins, dopamine is the primary hormone released. It’s responsible for feelings of pleasure, desire, and motivation. 

“Post-nut clarity” is a feeling typical of men after an orgasm. It’s described as a feeling of lightness, in which there is an immediate sobering or clear-minded feeling. For some it can be shameful or guilty, for others it’s celebratory. 

What Can Affect My Ability to Orgasm?

There are several factors that can affect a male's ability to orgasm, including medical, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Some common factors include:

Age-related changes: As men age, they may experience a decrease in sexual functioning, including difficulties achieving orgasm. As men age, the production of testosterone, a hormone primarily responsible for male sexual development and function, tends to decrease gradually. This natural decline in testosterone production is a normal part of the aging process and is known as age-related or late-onset hypogonadism. 

Psychological factors: Psychological issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, performance anxiety, or traumatic experiences can affect a man's ability to orgasm.

Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medications, can cause delayed or inhibited ejaculation.

Alcohol and drug use: Excessive alcohol consumption or the use of illicit drugs can affect the nerves and blood vessels involved in achieving orgasm.

Anorgasmia: This is a condition where an individual has difficulty or is unable to reach orgasm despite sufficient sexual stimulation.

Erectile dysfunction: ED is the inability to maintain or achieve an erection that is firm enough for sexual intercourse. 

Delayed ejaculation: It may take a significantly longer time or increased intensity of stimulation to achieve orgasm, or they may not be able to reach orgasm at all.

Traumatic experience: Traumatic experiences can have a profound impact on a person's ability to orgasm. Trauma can refer to a wide range of experiences, including sexual abuse, assault, or any event that caused significant emotional distress or fear. 

How Can Rex MD Help?

If you are looking for ways to improve your sexual experiences, Rex MD has got you covered. 

Rex MD helps guys in need of an extra boost in the bedroom with ED medications like Viagra and Cialis

Plus, you won’t even have to leave your house. 

After you answer a few questions online about your needs, a doctor may prescribe you with a medication that can be sent to your home quickly and discreetly. Get started today with Rex MD.