Master's and Johnson's 4 Phase Sexual Response Cycle

Today in class we went over a concept which I learned already in PSYC 260. I found it an interesting and easy concept to remember when I first learned it and still do. In PSYC 260 I learnt just the four phases but in class today I learnt what happens in each phase in both the male and female bodies.

Phase 1: Excitement- (males) An erection occurs and the testes increase in size and elevate up closer to the body. (females) Lubrication occurs, and erection of the clitoris happens, and breast size increases. Both sexes have an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Mytonia also occurs.

Phase 2: Plateau-(males)The Cowper's gland secretes drops of fluid, the testes get into position for ejaculation. (female) The uterus increases in size and elevates.

Phase 3: Orgasmic-(male) Contractions and ejaculation occurs and the sphincter relaxes. (female) 3-15 contractions occurs and tension is released. Both experience body spasms.

Phase 4: Resolution-(male) the first bit of blood with-draws within the 1st minute and the rest after. (female) Released blood from the genital and breasts. Mytonia is released for both sexes.

In PYSC 260 we saw the 4 phases as a diving board. Climbing up the latter is the excitement, walking across the board to the end is the plateau, jumping off is the orgasm, and floating in the water is the resolution. I find that concept is an easy way of remembering the 4 phases.

This is a picture we received in PYSC 260 to remember the 4 phases