Glossary term

Orgasm

Also known as climaxcomingpeak

An orgasm is the peak of sexual pleasure — a wave of intense release and relaxation — though it's one possible part of intimacy rather than its required goal.

The gist

An orgasm is the climax of arousal, typically felt as rhythmic release followed by relaxation. It varies enormously between people and occasions, and it isn't a requirement for intimacy to be satisfying. Treating it as a welcome possibility rather than a mandatory finish line takes pressure off and often makes it easier.

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