Coitus-induced orgasm stimulates prolactin secretion in healthy subjects

Previous data have indicated that orgasm produces marked alterations in pla sma prolactin concentrations in men and women. Thus, the current study aime d to extend these data by examining prolactin response to coitus in healthy males and females. Ten pairs of healthy heterosexual couples participated in the study, Blood was drawn continuously for 20 min before, during, and u ntil 60 min following sexual intercourse and orgasm. Plasma was subsequentl y analysed for prolactin concentrations. Coitus-induced orgasm produced a m arked elevation of plasma prolactin in both males and females. Plasma prola ctin concentrations remained elevated 1 h following orgasm. These data, tog ether with previous evidence that masturbation-induced orgasm produces pron ounced, long-lasting increases in plasma prolactin concentrations in both m ales and females, suggest a role for acute prolactin alterations in modifyi ng human sexual desire following orgasm. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.