Vaginal contraction

Vaginal contraction is a muscle contraction that occurs in the vagina, often due to sexual arousal and orgasm, but can also occur as a result of physical exercise, stress, and other factors.

Overview

Vaginal contractions are generally an involuntary muscular response to sexual stimulation, including sexual arousal, and are commonly most intense during sexual intercourse and culminating in orgasm. Though usually an involuntary response, some women can control the muscles of the vagina to perform vaginal contractions at will. Vaginal contractions enhance the sexual experience and pleasure for both parties during sexual intercourse.

Physiology

Vaginal contractions are caused by activity in the autonomic nervous system (involuntary), and the release of the hormone oxytocin. The contractions of the pelvic muscles, including the muscles of the vagina, are part of the sexual response cycle and are most typically experienced during orgasm, although they can occur in other phases of the sexual response cycle as well.

Clinical significance

Vaginal contractions can have a clinical significance in childbirth. During labor, contractions of the uterus will help push the baby down the birth canal. The vagina is designed to expand and elongate during the birth process, allowing the baby to pass through.

See also

• Orgasm
• Sexual arousal
• Pelvic floor
• Childbirth