Human sexuality

Question 1

4 phases of sexual response cycle

Answer 1

• Desire
• Excitement
• Plateau
• Orgasm and resolution

Question 2

Physiologic changes during sexual response cycle

Answer 2

• Erection begins at excitement stage (via imagery or tactile stimuli)
• Penis enlarges, testes are drawn toward perineum, scrotal skin thickens, there may be erection of nipples, skin flushing
• Near ejaculation BP and HR increase, there is hyperventilation
• During orgasm there may be involuntary muscle spasms, rectal sphincter contractions, and vocalizations
• In female the excitement phase is the same, producing engorgement of the clitoris
• There is vaginal lubrication via transudation
• Labia enlarge, uterus elevates
• There is contraction of uterus and vagina in addition to the things seen in men

Question 3

Similarities and differences btwn male and female in sexual response cycle

Answer 3

• In females there is a feed-forward cycle of intimacy generating sexual stimuli generating sexual arousal and desire
• Upon satisfaction of this more emotional intimacy is made and thus more desire
• In men there is just desire and it is almost always present

Question 4

Medical and health implications of sexual orientation

Answer 4

• Access to health care may be problematic, possible discrimination (passive or active)
• Gay men: HIV/AIDS, STDs, anal CA screening
• Lesbians: breast and cervical CA screening
• Both: substance abuse, mental health, homophobia