This HuffPost Canada page is maintained as part of an online archive.

Understanding The Female Orgasm

Ah, science!

Sex Ed easily explains why men have orgasms, but scientists have long wondered why women get them too.

And finally, it seems, researchers from Yale University have figured it out.

According to the new study, the original purpose of the female orgasm was crucial to reproduction as it resulted in a surge of hormones that readied the body for egg production.

The study, which looked at the reproductive health of female mammals, noted that while women release an egg a month, other female mammals only release an egg after mating.

Scientists say this was likely also the norm for women 150 million years ago, but since then, ovulation and orgasms have changed. The study also suggests the clitoris was inside the vagina in these early mammals, making it much easier for them to achieve an orgasm during intercourse.

“It is important to stress that it didn’t look like the human female orgasm looks like now,” Mihaela Pavličev, co-author of the study told The Guardian.

As the body has evolved, the clitoris is much further from the vagina, which might explain why many women can't achieve an orgasm during intercourse.

These days, the study's authors suggest that since female orgasm is no longer required for ovulation, it has developed a new purpose — promoting partner bonding — thanks to the release of the feel-good hormone oxytocin as you climax.

Also on HuffPost

Be Consistent With Your O's

9 Ways To Always Reach An Orgasm

Close
This HuffPost Canada page is maintained as part of an online archive. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.