Sexual arousal also known as sexual excitement describes the physiological and psychological responses in preparation for sexual intercourse or when exposed to sexual stimuli. A number of physiological responses occur in the body and mind as preparation for sexual intercourse, and continue during intercourse. Male arousal will lead to an erection , and in female arousal , the body's response is engorged sexual tissues such as nipples , clitoris , vaginal walls , and vaginal lubrication.
Mental stimuli and physical stimuli such as touch, and the internal fluctuation of hormones , can influence sexual arousal. Sexual arousal has several stages and may not lead to any actual sexual activity beyond a mental arousal and the physiological changes that accompany it. Given sufficient sexual stimulation, sexual arousal reaches its climax during an orgasm. It may also be pursued for its own sake, even in the absence of an orgasm.
Depending on the situation, a person can be sexually aroused by a variety of factors, both physical and mental. A person may be sexually aroused by another person or by particular aspects of that person, or by a non-human object. The physical stimulation of an erogenous zone or acts of foreplay can result in arousal, especially if it is accompanied with the anticipation of imminent sexual activity. Sexual arousal may be assisted by a romantic setting, music or other soothing situation.
Sexual arousal can come from porn or other sexual material. The potential stimuli for sexual arousal vary from person to person, and from one time to another, as does the level of arousal. Stimuli can be classified according to the sense involved: somatosensory touch , visual, and olfactory scent. Auditory stimuli are also possible, though they are generally considered secondary in role to the other three. Given the right context, these may lead to the person desiring physical contact, including kissing , cuddling , and petting of an erogenous zone.
This may in turn make the person desire direct sexual stimulation of the breasts , nipples , buttocks or genitals , and further sexual activity. Erotic stimuli may originate from a source unrelated to the object of subsequent sexual interest. For example, many people may find nudity , erotica or pornography sexually arousing. When sexual arousal is achieved by or dependent on the use of objects, it is referred to as sexual fetishism , or in some instances a paraphilia.
