Coitus

The first coitus is a physical and emotional landmark in a woman's life. During puberty the external genitalia in girls matures, becom- ing progressively conducive to the sexual act. The labia majoria develops as a fold of fatty tissue. The labia minoria is covered with a layer of mucus membrane and joins the inner surface of the labia majora. Clitoris develops as a sensitive projection, containing copious blood supply and nerves.

 

The vestibule that is enclosed by the labia minora has four openings - the urethra (opening of the urinary tract). the vagina (the opening of the reproductive tract) and two other openings that lead to the glands that secrete lubrication fluids. A thin mucus membrane, called the 'hymen', covers the vaginal opening. Varying in thickness it may be non-existent in some women. At first coitus there may be bleeding because of the rupture of the hymen. However, as there are variations in the hymen anatomy, the bleeding that follows its rupture is variable and may be totally absent in some women.

In general, sight and touch of women's breasts, buttocks and vulva arouse men while buttocks and genitals of man arouse most women. A strong emotional component along with physical proximity leads to desire to have sexual intercourse. In man, the most obvious sign of sexual excitement is erection of the penis which enlarges in length and diameter.

At erection, a dramatic increase in the flow of blood to the penis approximately doubles its length and stiffens it so that it can enter into the partner's vagina. For the woman physical excitment is characterised by increase in size of clitoris. The lips around the vaginal entrance become softer and thicker. At this time two small glands lying near the vagina secrete a fluid that lubricates the vaginal opening and makes the entry of the penis easy. If the man attempts to introduce the penis before the vaginal area is lubricated, coitus may be painful to the woman. Therefore, a sufficient foreplay to arouse the woman is necessary if the intercourse has to be a pleasurable experience for both the partners.

Sexual responses of women have been studied objectively and have been found to be variable. While no concrete generalisations can be made, on the basis of scientific observations of physiological changes four stages can be identified. The first is the 'excitement stage', characterised by increased blood supply to the labia minora and an increased sensitivity of the clitoris. There is an increased blood flow to the breasts as well, as is seen by the increase in toughness of the nipples. The stage 'plateau stage', characterised by muscular contractions that press on the clitoris and the vaginal structures.
During sexual intercourse the male thrusts his penis in and out of the partner's vagina. For a man as orgasm approaches, he is aware that ejaculation will occur. Three to six expulsive contractions of the muscles at the base of the penis contract, leading to spurting out of the fluid called 'semen'. During this period tha man may clasp his partner tightly ans as the climax passes the penis becomes limp. The woman also feels corresponding responses. A reflex stretch mechanism and the contraction that preee on the clitoris, vulva and lower vaginal area lead to the third stage, the 'orgasm'. An orgasm is a feeling of intense pleasure for both men and women. A woman's orgasm like in man is associated with jerking of thigh and pelvic muscles. Some women experience rigidity during orgasm.
The fourth stage is the 'resolution stage' with events related to subsiding of the orgasm. All changes in the genital organs and other parts of the body (breasts, abdominal and thigh muscles) that experienced a surge of blood flow return to normal form at resolution. Energy consumins, the sexual act results in conception if the woman has ovulated at about the same time. The sexual act during menstruation is somewhat undesirable for the tissues of the reproductive tract are in a fragile stage and are prone to infections.
Masturbation is stimulation of the genitals by fingers. It does not cause any physical harm and is often part of experiments with their sexuality in adolescents. However, it is considered to be an unclean habit. Coitus, on the other hand, is a far more satisfying, intense emotional experience and a pbysical expression of warmth between two individuals. When enjoyed with consent and respect for each other, such physical encounter goes a long way in binding partners in long-term relationships.