An orgasm, of course, is the much sought-after conclusion to a period of high sexual arousal. During her excitement, a woman’s body packs blood into her clitoris, labia and tissue surrounding her vaginal opening. Physical tension builds, as does the subjective experience of sexual arousal. If an orgasm occurs, the blood is released from the genital tissue and the woman senses a warm wave of intense pleasure in association with each strong contraction of her pelvic floor muscles. After an orgasm (or several orgasms if the woman is multiply-orgasmic) both mind and body relax, as the woman bathes in her quiet post-orgasmic after-glow.

Ideally the sexual response begins with a physical hunger. Call it what you will... sexual desire, libido, or horniness. Desire is the yearning between the ears. It is the motivation to sex sexual pleasure and release. The next step in the "sexual response cycle" is arousal. As a woman becomes aroused (turned on), physical changes begin. Blood is sent down into the tissue of her genitals. Her genital lips will swell a bit and might spread open. Her clitoris, (often called the pleasure bud) is composed of spongy erectile tissue that engorges, enlarges, and firms. The clitoris becomes exquisitely sensitive to touch. As the woman responds the muscles around the entrance to her vaginal will relax and the slippery lubricant will seep out from its opening.

During arousal a woman's nipple might firm. Some will develop a slight rash (call the sexual flush) on their chests. Breathing is likely to change and blood pressure will increase.

With continued stimulation, most typically and effectively focused on the clitoris, the orgasmic woman will mentally experience her rapidly escalating excitement. Her breathing pattern will change, her psychological awareness will focus on the stimulation, and she will probably close her eyes. As this builds, the typical woman will feel her body begin to tense. The muscles in her legs, pelvis and abdomen will tighten. This is called hypertonicity and should not be a reason for a woman to stop! Many women exaggerate their automatic response and consciously tighten the muscles surround their vaginal opening.