Stage Two - Plateau

During this stage:

due to increased blood flow, the outer third of the vagina swells and the genitalia appear darker
the clitoris is very sensitive and retracts beneath its hood
heart rate, blood pressure and breathing continue to increase
muscle tension increases and spasms may occur in the feet, face and hands

Sexual Health and Sexual Problems

Sexual health refers to the ability to enjoy sex. It also includes birth control, abortion, and the avoidance and treatment of sexually transmitted disease.

Sexuality is an important part of health, quality of life, and general wellbeing. As a consequence of the impact of Viagra on male sexual dysfunction, considerable attention is now being paid to sexual dysfunctions in women, which might respond to pharmacological treatment.

In 1918, Marie Stopes published some letters from women who expressed their anxieties about their ?unnatural? sexual desire or lack of pleasure in sexual intercourse. Stopes stated that enjoyment of sex could be brought about through information, education and good contra

Stage One - Excitement

This stage can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. Sexual activity during this stage is often called foreplay. Extending foreplay can sometimes make the other stages more intense. During this stage:

the blood flow to the genitalia increases
the clitoris swells
the vagina begins to lubricate (becomes wet and slippery)
blood flow to a woman's breasts increases and her nipples may get hard
heart rate and blo