Derek has had an orgasm and is unable to have another one just yet. His wife, Emma, however, has not had an orgasm yet. Her heart rate and blood pressure are rising, but at a slowing rate. In addition, the muscles in her vagina are tightening. With respect to the human sexual response cycle, Derek is in the __________, while Emma is in the ________.
A)refractory period; excitement stage
B)refractory period; plateau stage
C)plateau stage; excitement stage
D)plateau stage; refractory period

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Derek is in the refractory period, which is a phase following orgasm during which an individual is unable to achieve another orgasm. Emma is in the plateau stage, characterized by the physiological changes described, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure and tightening of the vaginal muscles, which occur before orgasm.

Derek Has Had an Orgasm and Is Unable to Have