plateau stage

physiology

Also known as: plateau phase

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Last updated

June 23, 2026

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The plateau phase in human sexual response is a stage of near-maximal physiological arousal that occurs after the excitement phase and before orgasm. During this phase, physiological responses like pulse rate, blood pressure, and breathing continue to increase. Muscle tension rises, and genital fluids are secreted. For females, vaginal expansion is noticeable. This phase is typically brief, and if sexual stimulation continues, it usually leads to orgasm. Unlike males, who become unresponsive to further stimulation after orgasm, females are capable of experiencing multiple orgasms without an intervening rest period. The term "plateau" in a general sense refers to reaching a state of stability or maximum attainment.12

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sexual response cycle
In the plateau stage, breathing becomes more rapid and the muscles continue to tense; the glans at the head of the penis swells and the testes enlarge in the male; in the female, the outer vagina contracts and the clitoris retracts.
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In the plateau stage, breathing becomes more rapid and the muscles continue to tense; the glans at the head of the penis swells and the testes enlarge in the male; in the female, the outer vagina contracts and the clitoris retracts.
Read More