Coined by sex researchers Masters and Johnson, the refractory period is a term used to describe the time after an orgasm when someone is unable to respond to sexual stimulation.
In men, the refractory period is evidenced by an inability to get an erection immediately following ejaculation. More recently this period in men has been further divided into an “absolute refractory period” and a period of time following it when an erection can be obtained providing the stimulation is different or greater than the original stimulation.
Traditionally, researchers have had much to say about the fact that women don’t seem to have a refractory period. More recently researchers and clinicians who are critical of the traditional model of sexual response, have pointed out that women’s sexual response does not fit well with traditional models, and that a new way of thinking of sexual response is needed. The lack of a refractory period in women's sexual experience is one example of how the traditional model may not be sufficent.
Published February 12, 2006.
