What is the resting period after orgasm during which another orgasm cannot be achieved?

• A. Arousal period
• B. Refractory period
• C. Resolution phase
• D. Plateau phase

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is the refractory period—the afterglow phase following orgasm when another erection and orgasm can’t be achieved right away. After orgasm, the body undergoes neurochemical changes, including a rise in prolactin and shifts in dopamine and serotonin, which dampen arousal and temporarily prevent another orgasm. This resting period varies a lot from person to person, often lasting minutes and sometimes longer, especially with age.

To place it in the bigger picture, the arousal period is the initial buildup of sexual excitement, the plateau phase is the peak of that excitement just before orgasm, and the resolution phase is the body returning to a non-aroused state after climax. The refractory period specifically refers to the temporary inability to achieve another orgasm immediately after the first.