process

Last reviewed 01/2018

This is a very general description of the process of sexual intercourse that is practised by the majority of adult humans. However it must be emphasized that this description is just a cameo - there is a huge variety in human sexual practice and thus a very wide ranging definition of what is normal.

• initiative in the sexual process may be taken by either partner. Sexual arousal may be indicated by looks, gestures, words and touch. Foreplay may then follow and this involves touching, kissing and stimulating erotic areas. Initially foreplay may focus on non-genital areas and later on the genitals. In the female, the clitoris is a vital receptor of stimulation - the accurate knowledge about its anatomy and communication of its function may be the factor that determines the female's achievement of orgasm.
• the aroused female she may become aware of vaginal lubrication. Indeed she may achieve orgasm without genital stimulation. Fantasizing and dreaming may also initiate orgasm.
• At the end of the excitement phase the female lies on her back and the male lies on top of her ('the missionary position'). Penile-vaginal contact can be achieved by the female taking the penis in one hand and separating the labia with the other. The female guides the penis into the vagina. The male his penis then thrusts up and down the vagina (without withdrawing); the frequency of thrusts increasing as orgasm approaches.
• Simultaneous orgasm is rarely achieved. If the male continues to thrust after his orgasm then he may stimulate the female to her initial orgasm or utilise the females multiorgasmic potential. Clitoral stimulation may be used to help the female achieve orgasm if necessary. If only one partner has achieved orgasm then the other partner may become unsatisfied with sexual intercourse and potentially become frigid or impotent.