No two orgasms are alike. There, we said it. In fact, each one has its own unique waves and sensations, depending on who you are, what body parts you have, and how you choose to reach peak pleasure. Universally, a single orgasm can burn 2-3 calories in itself, however the way it is reached and how the body reacts may depend on what kind of orgasm it is. Interestingly, the penis and clitoris are both made of erectile tissue, however the way they react to pleasure differs. Whether you’ve already found your rhythm or are looking to learn a little more, here are some facts you might not know about clitoral and penile orgasms:

1. The clitoris, a small organ located above and around the vulva, has 8,000 nerve endings in the tip alone! Because of its sensitivity, it allows for deep, sensational orgasms. 
2. The penis contains 4,000 nerve endings in the head alone.
3. 50%-75% of people with a vagina need clitoral stimulation to reach orgasm.
4. Clitoral orgasms can release oxytocin in the brain, helping relieve pain in the body- whether it’s a headache or menstrual cramps.
5. Penile orgasms last on average around 10 seconds, while clitoral orgasms last around 20-30 seconds.
6. A penile orgasm is a separate event from ejaculation, even though they typically occur simultaneously. This can occur when one has reached orgasm but doesn’t expel semen.
7. A clitoral orgasm can have anywhere from 3-16 contractions.
8. People with penises experience a refractory period, meaning it’s a time where the body has to take a break before being able to experience another orgasm. People with clitorises and vulvas don’t have a refractory period.
9. While reaching an orgasm varies by individual, the way that a body processes and experiences an orgasm is scientifically the same. All bodies release the “pleasure hormone” oxytocin and the pelvic muscles react similarly during this time.
10.  For both clitoral and penile orgasms, the lateral orbitofrontal cortex, (part of the brain responsible for decision making and judgements), becomes less active during sex; this can substantially decrease feelings of fear or anxiety. 

While no orgasms are exactly alike, each is remarkable in itself!

Further Readings

12 Things That Happen in Your Brain When You Orgasm: Yahoo Finance
Vaginal vs Clitoral Orgasms: The Intimate Arts Center
Can Men Experience Clitoral Caresses: Psychology Today
12 Facts About the Clitoris: Huffington Post