Experiencing an orgasm, there, while walking in the middle of the street, or during a rowing session is disconcerting (after having pleased yourself), but is not a rarity. If you’ve ever felt this urge, know that it has a name: accidental orgasm. An orgasm which, as its name suggests, was absolutely not wanted.
When the body does as it pleases!
But is it really normal to enjoy like this, without preamble, and especially without a sexual act? The question was asked in Cosmopolitan. In any case, this is not very surprising for Pam Shaffer, marriage therapist:
“Physiological arousal is not always consistent with desire and context. This means that sometimes we are aroused even when nothing sexual is happening, while other times our bodies don’t feel aroused at all, even when we are experiencing sexual desire.”
In fact, continues Nazanin Moali, psychologist and sexologist, several reasons can lead to this little unexpected feeling of heat: “The ability to experience accidental orgasms depends on factors such as physiology, type of physical activity, hormonal balance and underlying medical conditions” she indicates.
There would therefore be 5 situations that can cause this orgasm from elsewhere.
Orgasms can be induced by physical exercise,
The most common form of accidental orgasm is that caused by sports, or physical activity. (We then call it gymgasm!) Certain exercises such as abdominals, yoga, running, cycling can stress your body and contract the pelvic floor, sometimes triggering involuntary orgasms.
Orgasms can happen during sleep
Another classic, accidental orgasms occurring at night, during our sleep, are quite common (depending on the dreams and the people in them).“These nocturnal orgasms occur during REM sleep phases, when we dream”she specifies. It’s up to you to make your own interpretations when you wake up!
Orgasms May Be Linked to a Medical Condition
Less common, medications or pathologies can also act as a trigger for accidental orgasm. “People who suffer from spinal cord injuries may experience orgasm through mental channels or stimulation of the cervix. Certain medications, such as antidepressants or opioids, may also play a role in the involuntary orgasmic response.” describes Nazanin Moali.
Orgasms can be induced by the mind
As surprising as it may seem, the simple fact of nourishing a mental sexual fantasy can also trigger a psychological response leading to orgasm, going through its four phases: arousal, plateau, orgasm and resolution.
“Our minds are incredibly powerful,” recalls Taylor Sparks founder of OrganicLoven.com, “The excitement phase begins, builds to the plateau and climaxes, all in complete freedom.”
Orgasms may be linked to the senses
Some people will also be particularly sensitive to non-physical stimuli, such as words, whispers, looks, etc. And quickly move into the excitement phase, why not until the climax.
Regardless, while accidental orgasms don’t happen to all women, they’re still a fairly common phenomenon that shouldn’t worry you. On the other hand, if these sensations make you uncomfortable, disturb you or occur with too much regularity, do not hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional or your doctor to better understand what is happening to you.