 |
|
|
|
October 13th, 2011
07:14 AM ET
Are female orgasms a 'bonus'?Ian Kerner, a sexuality counselor and New York Times best-selling author, blogs about sex on Thursdays on The Chart. Read more from him on his website, GoodInBed.
Investigators want to know whether the female orgasm is an “adaptation” or “byproduct” of evolution. In other words, does the female orgasm, like the male orgasm, have its own evolutionary raison d’etre and contribute directly to reproductive success? Or is it just an awesome bonus? Make that totally awesome. This question of whether the female orgasm is an adaptation or a byproduct came to the fore in 2005 with the publication of “The Case of the Female Orgasm: Bias in the Science of Evolution,” in which Indiana University professor Elisabeth Lloyd rigorously examined 21 theories that sought to promote the female orgasm as an adaptation and, ultimately, found all of them lacking. Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to have had some thought-provoking conversations with Lloyd on various topics – such as whether premature ejaculation makes good evolutionary sense – and recently, her work has been once again garnering much-deserved attention. · Another theory states that female orgasm is a part of mate selection: A woman will choose her mate based on his ability to bring her to climax. · And a third main theory involves the belief that the contractions of female orgasm will draw sperm up the reproductive tract and into the uterus. In her book, Lloyd argues that studies show that the vast majority of women do not experience orgasm as a result of intercourse alone, or do so inconsistently, so how could the female orgasm be an adaptation? If the female orgasm, like the male orgasm, was essential to the propagation of humanity, wouldn’t it need to occur consistently via sexual intercourse? Instead, Lloyd argues to view the female orgasm through the lens of the “byproduct” theory, which holds that orgasm is a trait that is so heavily selected in males (reproduction wouldn’t happen without it) that women retain an inherent capacity – after all, men and women are physiologically the same during the first eight weeks of gestation: Penises grow out, clitorises grow in, but they share the same organic structure and tissue. According to Lloyd, “It is crucial to note that the penis and the clitoris are the ‘same’ organ in men and women. ... [T]he nervous and erectile tissues involved in orgasm in both sexes arose from a common embryological source.” This same byproduct theory also explains why men have nipples: The biological necessity of nursing our young makes the nipple so highly selected in women that male embryos develop immature structures as an evolutionary byproduct. Similar to the clitoris, the male nipple contains highly sensitive tissue that contributes to male sexual arousal and pleasure. Male nipples: arousing? Yes. Necessary? No. Yet a study of twins and siblings published recently in the journal Animal Behavior questions the byproduct theory of female orgasm. Researchers looked for similarities in orgasm function between 10,000 Finnish female and male twins. And although there were significant similarities between same-sex twins, the researchers found no such correlation in orgasm function between opposite-sex twins, a correlation one would expect if female orgasm is a byproduct of male orgasm. All this debate of adaptation vs. byproduct shouldn’t really matter to the average person who just wants to enjoy orgasms. The problem, though, is that we tend to believe that what’s “natural” is better, even orgasms. And if we do argue that the female orgasm is some sort of “evolutionary norm,” then what should be said of all the women who do not orgasm consistently – that they are somehow not normal? As a sex counselor, I frequently receive e-mails from women who are unable to achieve orgasm via intercourse and wonder, “What can I do to change this? What’s wrong with me?” Well, if we stop thinking of female orgasms as something that should naturally result from intercourse, then we can also stop feeling that there’s one right way to have orgasms. In this sense, the byproduct theory offers a more expansive and encompassing view of female sexuality. Unfortunately the term “byproduct” doesn’t exactly resonate with a sense of the exalted, so perhaps we should stick to Lloyd’s later rephrasing of the female orgasm as a “fantastic bonus” – or as I like to say, totally awesome! soundoff (1,434 Responses)« Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Next »Leave a Reply to Billi Schnautz
« Previous entryHealthier foods earn healthier profits
|
  About this blog
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the latest stories from CNN Chief Medical Correspondent, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Senior Medical Correspondent Elizabeth Cohen and the CNN Medical Unit producers. They'll share news and views on health and medical trends - info that will help you take better care of yourself and the people you love.
 |
|
|
|
What do female orgasms and male nipples have in common? It’s a question that is helping inform research into the purpose of female orgasm (other than simply as a form of pleasure).
Female Orgasms: Who needs a hand gun when you have a semi-automatic? 😉
To funny, but very interesting ...
My wife of 24 years is 50, does not know what an orgasm is, and doesn't miss it.
We made 2 kids of the $ex we wanted exactly when we wanted them.
So, the O appears to be optional. However, I do wish...
I`m not saying your doing it wrong, I would make it a lifes quest to make this happen, Maybe you need to bring some help to bed with you. Or try anal, that gets um everytime.
Help was turned down, and last time I mentioned the A word I slept in the doghouse for 2 months.
She doesn't feel comfortable with herself, or there is something physically wrong with her down under. I'm not trying to be mean when I say that, but that is very unfortunate....for her. To think to go through life and not experience the most intense feeling that life has to offer would be upsetting for me. You do need to pursue this and help her find that "spot". I think this is more of an issue with her than it is with you, but look at changing and doing whatever you can to help her. This is a must!!
Falero: You are spot on. Thing is, I've been trying real hard for so long... What you have correctly pointed affects so many sides of her life that our couple is simply falling apart. Yes, personal therapy has been mentioned many times and always dismissed. Been to couple therapy, with temporary results. This ship is sinking, I appear to be the only one who does not want to drawn. My life is just beginning, it's mine, I'm responsible for it, so hasta la pasta. I'm turning the page.
Yeah, you can't help someone that doesn't want or see the need for help. So sad, as I'm sure her life isn't as positive or fullfilling as it could be. She's getting to the point where it is starting to become too late for change, she doesn't have many chances left. Good luck with that.
Rambo,
use one or two fingers and stroke her belly button (not literally, just aim that way) from the inside. thats usually a sweet spot
matrix09. just because u have to pay a woman to fake an orgasm doesnt mean that we cant have them.
If the man i good, (im bragging again) I can have 17 or more. And this is true. but only with a man that can make it happen. Obviously you will not be on my list.
I feel sorry for your women. (if they're real and not inflatable) You are very much out of tune with your partner if you can't tell when she's coming. So if she peed on you you'd think you did a good job?
omniscient, about the only thing on that list I haven't done is haul lumber ... I don't own a truck. Oh, and as far as needing sperm to produce a child, well, you are right there. Thanks to sperm banks, though, I don't need YOU. BTW, that goes both ways....try having a baby with that right hand of yours.
mmmm...I don't know but if the scientists involved need someone to help experiment with the chick in the photo for this article, hit me up. I would love to try to prove the theory one way or another 🙂 Oh yeah the gay guy on top of her would have to go...sorry...
WOW, your right, he has that I need a topper look, and she is hot I would prolly be a real dissappointment for her, The first time...
Who cares if she is enjoying it or not. That sounds like a personal problem on her end.
Work hard to ensure your woman has regular orgasms...or some other guy will. It ain't rocket science. Just takes practice and good communication. Some times in ain't gonna happen and you just move along and have your fun. Make up for it with a nice back scratch or rub after to stay out of trouble.
Whats the saying again? Why do women fake orgasms? Because they think we care.
The comments on this article are RIDICULOUS! Good for a laugh break at work, that's for sure!
The female orgasm is a bonus, but it should be a required bonus. Being someone who it seems always produces the most common type of female orgasm, and who has been gifted to learn the secrets of the other, less accomplished (by men) type, I can say that it is required because if you can produce it, they love ya, simple as that. Or they love making love with you. Additionally, why should they go without orgasms? Why should they be the ones who miss this delight, when they have so much other work to do in sustaining the race?
I think the "second class" comment was meant to be ironic folks...
Straight Men just feel threatened when their organ isn't enough. Relax and enjoy the whole body folks. Really.
so i guess your gay?
Actually, this is just feminist rhetoric, that men are more violent than women. It's actually the other way around. Women are the predominant perpetrators of child maltreatment now, almost 60% to males 40%. Don't believe me just take a look at the US Department of Health and Human Services webpage. It's all there under their child maltreatment PDF report.
Because women belong in the kitchen and the house
Statistics are meaningless, because they're so easy to misinterpret. What is the incidence of child mistreatment per hour of child care? My guess is that men don't measure up on that basis.
Women making excuses...no way! How can you excuse child maltreatment by saying it happens because men aren't there? If that's the case why spread your legs and even have a child in the first place?
that's because so many dads have bailed. Have you considered that statistic in consideration of the number of mother-only homes? Dad can't beat the kid if he disappeared.
Leave it to a feminist woman to blame men for their rising rates of child abuse lol
"The father isn't around so I'm gonna beat the crap outta this child!"
Gotta love the new breed of Western women. Worse than the old breed of Western men lol
Over 70% of child maltreatment is neglect not a violent act (but a passive on), and most likely these kids not being taken care of by their mothers were already abandoned by their fathers.
Wow Grim Reaper, second class equipment? Well, i suppose that means I have first class equipment since I am a man? I do love my equipment...but do you kknow why? Because of the second class equipment. In-fact, I thank god every day for second class equipment! Without it my life wouldn't be near as fun!
I have it on VERY good authority that both premature ejaculation AND the female orgasm are myths. They do not exist!
If you think that's so, you must be a virgin.
I used to think the female orgasm was like the lochness monster..everyone heard of it but no-one has ever seen it..but since my wife turned 35 or so...I am now a believer in the female orgasm...If we could just get concrete evidence nessy exists, that would kill that myth too. Anyone have proof of nessy?
LOL, keep "reading" that Victoria Secret's magazine. That will be you "girlfriend" for quite some time.
You're kidding right? Trust me, women have orgasms.
Then you have no idea what you're doing with a female body.
Virgin
its bonus if you are comfortable enough ith your body and learn your body to get a good one. older woman are better at orgasm from practice and able to get multiple orgasm. The women who are comfortable enough with their body can get this bonus. this is from my experience.
So true..I turned 30 recently and have recently discovered the joy of g-spot orgasms. I can't wait to see what else is in store!
DEFINITE bonus!! After 30, it only gets better! If it was like this in my 20's I would be an addict for sure!!
If the guy doesn't want to be faced with "headache" after "headache" it had better be considered a necessity!
If women are having trouble with an orgasm, come see me. Garuntteed I can give you one.
Along with some STD's
Some women just don't get off on penetration alone.
I used to think that too... how wrong I was!!
The vast majority of women do not get off from penetration alone.
However, most of us are able to fake it enough to convince men.
Keep telling yourself that, Studley!
Not with a minutman. Try a cyclist, they ride longer.
that's because they haven't met me!
Very stimulating article!!! I always aim to go 2nd, in regards to climax, with my wife. I usually can make her hmmm by my doing, but sometimes she has to get on top. I think it's great that she'll get multiple times, as she will be left very satisfied. Sometimes, though, she just can't. Whether we're strapped for time or she has too much on her mind. As I am a lil dissapointed for her, I don't let it bother me, as I KNOW how to get mine!! 😉
I usually can tell when she finishes as the inside of her vah-jay-jay pulsates/spasms around my "sword(that's what I'm calling it!! :-)". This coincides with her telling me. My guess would be that when this happens, and if I were to climax at the same time, that the stimulated tissue would help assist the sperm to reach their final destination. That is just my guess
TMI
Yes it do!
I think people who talk like you are full of it. Why did you share that? People who are pleased with their lives don't go online and write a whole paragraph of personal info. You're lying and you know it.
I would guess that your wife would be very unsatisfied if she heard you call her womanhood a "vah-jay-jay".
Along with causing multiples when I have an event.........I have a problem because all I have to do is TOUCH a woman's hand and she gets pregnant! It is a curse!! I don't mind pleasing a woman.....that is correct and fair...but every time....ends up with a pregnancy! I don't like wearing a "preventer" so my only solution I guess is to stop doing what I am doing and be celibate!
Get a vasectomy and you won't cause accidental pregnancies.
Learn to use a condom or keep it in your pants, that's right. Otherwise get ready to pay child support for a minimum of 18 years...or were you bragging?
Ever heard of this thing called vasectomy? If you don't want kids, take measures for it! My husband had one and the worry-free $ ex is so much better!!!
Pick another h0le..you have options ;0)
So if you lay your hands on a woman she gets pregnant? That makes you kind of like Jesus, but kind of not...
Not wearing a "preventer" is less uncomfortable than paying child support for 18+ years? If you're that lazy, get a friggin' vasectomy.
When my boyfriend and I do the deed, I want to come. We can "bond" cuddling on the couch watching tv or by talking over dinner. The female orgasm is necessary for me. When I am satisfied, I make sure he is too. 😉
I think I speak for everyone here when I say WGAF.
Must be a slow news day elsewhere.
If this isn't the dumbest reason to write an article. As to the question the "author" asks – DEPENDS ON WHO YOU ASK MORON – the man or the woman !!!
I think it's safe to assume that the only people who don't find this article interesting, are the ones not getting any.
honestly have more fun pleasing my partner
Allll Right, giggity giggity giggity 🙂
Female Orgasm? Who cares? It's not like I'm doing this for her.
SomeGirl is very lucky to have you. No wait, she's not, she's getting her pleasure from her hot neighbor who DOES care if she comes!
Don't feed the trolls. If he gets too fat, his blow up girlfriend may burst.
Maybe you just can't bet it u.pKkeep trying sweetie.
I wish CNN would do an op-ed on bukkake.
Just wondering why would the researchers publish their study about twins and siblings in the "Journal Animal Behavior" ??? Were they not able to find some better journal? I agree the subject here is an animalistic act but still, it seems like authors saw it as more of an animal behavior than a human behavior.. funny ..
Humans are animals, so I am not sure why you have an issue with this.
CNN has turned in to Onion news....
All my life I have pursued "second class equipment" so I can give its owner a first class experience. 🙂
I don't want a vasectomy! Hate surgery. Your experience transcends two centuries.....I am surprised you can still go to the bathroom much less have an orgasm.
I love my second class equipment!
Fascinating article! I had no idea females could even have articles. This explains so much in my life.
*orgazims.. sorry. Is that what it was called??
If a woman does not enjoy the act then she's less likely to choose to do it I assume. It's odd that this is a question. Perhaps in a society where a woman's choice is not an issue one could wonder if the female org4sm is needed but most of us have concluded getting it on is an act that two people decide together to pursue. Bringing a woman pleasure is sure to increase the likely hood of her being with a certain man again and the contractions are going to certainly help increase the odds of fertilization.
I'd agree. If s e x isn't pleasurable for a woman, it's often downright painful or even causes some degree of injury. What woman would go along with it then if she wasn't under some pretty powerful physical or social coercion?
With news articles likes these, we see why people avoid CNN.
If it isn't about different political sides, races, nationalities, states, or even neighborhoods, people have to fight about the superiority of each gender's genitalia? Why do people always have to turn everything into some kind of "pick your sport, pick your team, and start hating each other"?
"...does the female orgasm, like the male orgasm, have its own evolutionary raison d’etre and contribute directly to reproductive success?"
It's no wonder this topic is all to confusing to evolutionists. How would evolution explain many women who don't experience orgasms but still get pregnant? God created, man. Then He created woman..and He created us both with s e x u a l organs fully loaded with pleasure glands and nerves. And like everything that God has created for us and in us, it all depends on how we use it or if we abuse it that will result in whatever it does.
Then how do you explain why females of other species have orgasms as well??
Female orgasm is definately a biological process that is evolutionary based. If the female has an orgasm with a mate, then they will want to keep him and continue the act of procreation. If not, you keep looking elsewhere.
Methinks the doctor needs an excuse for lousy performance!
Anybody lady looking for an orgasm? I am "The Mailman" and I deliver!
Wow........ I bet if I made my screen name "killalltheblackman", you would probably think I was a racist.
One thing I know is. My wife is pleasured first. Once she has gone. I'm free to go whenever I want. Thast how it should be. Women always come first.
I let me wife go first and then I return to her afterwards. It's the least I can do when I know she makes my eyes roll back in my head and I hear the 1812 Overture.
Maybe you fell out of bed and hit your head on the radio on the nightstand? Just sayin'...
My wife gets off by tieing me up and having her way with me. Sometimes she doe not allow me to climax other times she does.
What the h3ll.....It's always good for me. My 3rd wife better agree.....LOL
Leave it to a feminist woman to blame men for their rising rates of child abuse lol
"The father isn't around so I'm gonna beat the crap outta this child!"
Gotta love the new breed of Western women. Worse than the old breed of Western men lol
Here's a novel concept: Don't spread your legs to deadbeat men!
Wow. What an absolute load of crap! Even cursory investigation would have disclosed that female orgasm results in uterine contractions that literally reach out and pull in sperm. Therefore the functional purpose of a female orgasm (which by necessity must only result from more intimate knowledge of that particular women, and therefore comes about due to greater intimacy in terms of relationship and commitment between the pairs) is to increase the likelihood that a pregnancy will result.
Elementary reproductive biology. And your "studies" did not know this?
By all means, lets keep perpetuating the myth that women's pleasure and satisfaction is secondary of that of men. Wow.
AMAZING........they were able to find 10,000 maile/female twins in Finland
ADULT STEM CELLS CURE'S AIDS / HIV and A NUMBER OF OTHER THINGS BUT WHY????? IS AMERICA BEING HELD BACK FROM THE MAJOR LEAP IN MEDICINE DOES AMERICA WANT TOO KILL YOU ??????? OTHER COUNTRIES MAKING MAJOR LEAPS INTO MEDICINE BUT AMERICA IS STILL IN THE STONE AGE WHY????? WHO BENEFITS THE FDA BIG CORPORATIONS .......?
don't be silly any more.
women never have the ability to get multiple orgasms.
women also have refratory period after every real orgasm, and then they need to sleep immediately.
Trust me, this is not true.