ABSTRACT
The physical aspects underlying the sexual response are complex, but largely represent neurological, vascular and hormonal phenomena, all of which are largely under the control of higher centres in the brain and spinal cord. This chapter discusses many of the physical manifestations are common to both sexes, but important differences. The prime neurological mover in the sexual response is the parasympathetic nervous system, actuated by pelvic splanchnic nerves derived from the anterior rami of the second to fourth sacral nerves. The incentive-motivation model moves away from a physiological construct, taking into account social and environmental influences and stimuli acting on a sensitive sexual response system. Sexual arousal can result from a variety of sensory stimuli, including tactile, visual and olfactory sources. Vaginal lubrication increases during ovulation and sexual arousal. The lubrication fluid consists mainly of transudate of plasma from engorged vaginal mucosa, augmented by mucus produced by the Bartholin's glands and supplemented at ovulation by cervical mucus.
