Sexual arousal is the response to erotic stimuli, involving emotional and hormonal factors, increasing blood flow and resulting in an erection. The brain also plays a key role in this process, as areas like the hypothalamus and limbic system are connected to arousal. Learn more!
Sexual arousal is the result of mental and physical stimuli that activate neurotransmitters and trigger hormonal changes. In men, this process results in an erection, while in women, it leads to vaginal lubrication.
In today’s blog, you’ll understand how sexual arousal works—that is, how the body and mind process erotic stimuli to achieve arousal.
How does sexual arousal occur?
Arousal stems from stimuli that involve the five senses and memories of sexually satisfying experiences.
It’s a process that activates brain areas like the cortex, which interprets visual, tactile, and auditory sexual stimuli.
Other brain regions involved are the limbic system, responsible for controlling emotions and behavior, and the nucleus accumbens, part of the reward system, activated by dopamine release during pleasurable activities.
Sexual arousal also triggers the release of hormones, such as testosterone, which enhances this state of arousal.
Another hormone released during this phase is oxytocin. Known as the “love hormone,” it is associated with emotional bonding and intimacy, strengthening the connection between partners and intensifying arousal.
Psychological factors
Psychological factors like anticipation of intimacy and sexual fantasies positively influence sexual arousal.
For instance, fantasies pre-activate the brain’s reward areas, releasing dopamine and oxytocin, which enhance sexual arousal.
Physical factors
Testosterone plays a crucial role in sexual arousal. This hormone increases the sensitivity of sexual organs by dilating blood vessels in the penis, boosting blood flow to the area—essential for an erection.
Furthermore, testosterone heightens pleasure by stimulating the brain’s reward and sexual pleasure areas, releasing dopamine (associated with pleasure and motivation) and serotonin (linked to mood and well-being).
Environmental factors
A cozy environment with dim lighting, comfortable temperatures, and sensual music can enhance sexual arousal. Speaking of music, it triggers the same brain chemicals associated with sex, as shown in this study by McGill University in Canada.
Signs of sexual arousal in men
An erection is the primary sign of male sexual arousal. It occurs when the brain processes sexual stimuli, releases neurotransmitters like oxytocin, and sends signals to the penis, increasing blood flow and causing it to become erect.
Other signs of male arousal include:
- Increased heart rate: prepares the body for sexual activity;
- Heightened sensitivity: makes touch and caresses more pleasurable;
- Increased blood flow: especially in the neck, face, and chest.
This arousal process ends when stimuli stop or ejaculation occurs, reducing neurotransmitter levels, contracting arteries, and normalizing blood flow in the penis.
What is the difference between arousal and sexual desire?
The difference between arousal and sexual desire is that arousal is the physical response to mental and physical stimuli, while desire is the urge or willingness to engage in sexual activity, such as intercourse or masturbation.
Is it normal not to feel aroused sometimes?
Yes, it’s normal to occasionally lack arousal. Here are some situations where arousal might not occur:
- Physical or mental fatigue;
- During periods of stress, anxiety, sadness, or depression;
- When the relationship is in crisis;
- In environments where the person doesn’t feel physically or emotionally comfortable.
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