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Orgasm

Orgasm is a series of intense, pleasurable muscle contractions in the pelvic area. This is the result of genital stimulation.

Before orgasm, the body's muscles have tightened, and blood vessels in the genital area have swelled with blood. When this has reached a peak (climax), the muscles suddenly relax, and orgasm follows.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Revised March 10, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: March 10, 2010
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