What is the male sexual cycle?
The male sexual cycle is the evolutionarily conserved series of physiological events that occur within a male during the course of a single sexual experience. The cycle is divided into four phases; an excitatory phase, a plateau phase, an orgasmic phase and a resolution phase. Each of the 4 responses must be exhibited in order for the male to successfully penetrate a female and discharge his sperm within her. The information on this website refers to the sexual response cycle of the male human, though the basic physiological function of the cycle is conserved across both vertebrates and invertebrates of various species including dolphins, snakes and ladybirds.
Although usually associated with males possessing an intromittent sexual organ, it is current debate as to whether species that do not penetrate, including some species of fish, follow a similar response cycle during reporduction. Studies have shown that electrical activity in the brain can elicit milt release, indicating the requirement of hormonal activity, though thus far there is little evidence on which to draw a solid conclusion.
In humans the cycle represents build up and release of 'sexual tension'. The overall experience varies between males, and intensity tends to decrease with age. However, contrary to popular belief, most older males can still complete the cycles with little hinderance. Various substances can affect sexual performance, including alcohol and medication. It is a common misconception that solely illegal drugs disrupt sex response pathways within the body, however prescribed and over-the-counted medication can also be to blame.
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References
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