Refractory Period: 6 Factors That Affect the Refractory Period

The refractory period refers to a span of time in the sexual response cycle that occurs after orgasm or ejaculation, during which a person won’t respond (physiologically or psychologically) to sexual stimulation and is incapable of orgasming. During this time, blood pressure and heart rate decrease, the brain releases hormones, like prolactin or oxytocin, and dopamine levels lower to promote rest and recovery. All people, regardless of gender, experience a refractory period, lasting from a few seconds up to 24 hours.

The terms “absolute refractory period” and “relative refractory period” are sometimes confused with the refractory period in human sexuality. These terms describe the action potential of muscle cells or neurons in the brain and are unrelated to the refractory period of sexual arousal after orgasm.

Various factors can affect the length of the refractory period:

1. 1. Libido and arousal level. If you have a high libido or feel heightened arousal during a particular sexual encounter, you may experience a shorter refractory period, allowing you to orgasm much sooner after a previous orgasm.
2. 2. Sexual function. Healthy sexual function can often help overcome your refractoriness quicker. In contrast, if you experience sexual dysfunction (like erectile dysfunction or difficulties producing lubrication), you’re more likely to have a difficult time orgasming soon after a previous climax, and your body may need to wait longer before becoming aroused again.
3. 3. Overall health. Healthy individuals who eat a balanced diet and engage in regular exercise are more likely to have shorter refractory periods than those who consistently eat unhealthy foods or don’t exercise regularly.
4. 4. Age. In general, younger individuals have shorter refractory periods than older individuals. By age 40, many people experience changes in their libido, hormone levels, and sexual function that can extend their refractory period.
5. 5. Genitalia. As a general rule, the male refractory period is longer than the female refractory period. The average range for men is between a few minutes and two hours before they can ejaculate again; for women, it’s between a few seconds and a few minutes before they can achieve another climax.
6. 6. Type of sexual experience. Research shows that the type of sexual experience a person engages in can affect the length of their recovery time. If you engage in solo masturbation, your refractory period may only be a few seconds, whereas your refractory period may be longer if you engage in partnered sexual intercourse.

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