Physiology
The first part of the sexual response cycle is the initiation of sexual arousal through psychological, physical, and social stimuli. These can include thoughts, fantasies, memories, touch, sight, smell, sound, taste, and so forth. Initially, this stimulus activates nerves in the brain that trigger the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and acetylcholine. This then leads to increased blood flow to specific areas of the body, particularly the genitals, which causes them to become engorged and sensitive. The vagina becomes lubricated, while the penis becomes erect. The heart rate increases, breathing speeds up, and muscles tense throughout the body.
Neural
Neural mechanisms are triggered in the hypothalamus and amygdala, which are responsible for regulating emotions and motivation. They interact with each other to create an experience of pleasure or displeasure in response to these physical changes. If the experience is pleasurable, it will further increase arousal by releasing more dopamine and other hormones such as oxytocin, which promotes bonding and attachment. Meanwhile, if the experience is unpleasant, it will decrease arousal by decreasing dopamine levels and increasing stress hormones like cortisol.
Cognitive
Cognitive processes take over, and conscious awareness begins to play a role in shaping the arousal experience. This involves thinking about one's sexuality, desires, preferences, relationships, and boundaries. Cognitions can influence physiological and neural responses through feedback loops, causing them to change in intensity and duration.
If someone has negative thoughts about their body, they may not be able to fully enjoy the physical sensations. Conversely, if they have positive thoughts, they may prolong the sexual experience.
Convergence
All three components must work together for successful sexual arousal and desire: psychological stimuli activate physiological changes, which in turn trigger neurological responses that shape cognition. The brain and body communicate constantly during this process, creating a complex interplay between mind and body.
How do physiological, neural, and cognitive mechanisms converge to produce sexual arousal and desire?
Physiologically, sexual arousal is regulated by the autonomic nervous system which consists of two branches - sympathetic and parasympathetic. The sympathetic branch stimulates the body's fight or flight response, while the parasympathetic branch reduces it. When someone becomes sexually aroused, the sympathetic branch kicks in to increase heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration.