What Is An Orgasm?

An orgasm is the release of tension that can happen during sex or masturbation. It’s often intense and feels really good. Having an orgasm is sometimes called coming/cumming or climaxing.
Before and during an orgasm, you might notice changes to your body like:

• Your face and chest become warm and red
• Your heart beats faster
• Muscle spasms in your genitals
• A pleasurable feeling in your genitals or even across your whole body

During an orgasm, the penis squirts a small amount (1-2 tablespoons) of semen, a white liquid that contains sperm and other fluids. This is called ejaculation. It’s possible to have an orgasm without ejaculating or to ejaculate without an orgasm, but they usually happen together.
It’s also possible for fluid to squirt out of the vulva before or during an orgasm — this is sometimes called female ejaculation. This fluid isn’t pee. Female ejaculation is less common than ejaculation out of the penis, but if it happens to you, it’s totally okay - nothing is weird or wrong with you.
Every body is different and there’s not one “right” way to have an orgasm. You might be able to have an orgasm quickly and easily. Or you might need more time or a very specific type of stimulation. You might be able to have an orgasm when you masturbate but not when you have sex with a partner. All of these differences are normal. Experimenting with what feels good can help you understand your body and what feels good for you.
Although people tend to think that having an orgasm is the goal of sex, you can get lots of pleasure from doing sexual things even if you don’t have an orgasm. In fact, putting a lot of pressure on having an orgasm can make you or your partner anxious, which can make sex stressful and less enjoyable. Relax, and remember that pleasure, not orgasms, is the goal.