Why do women have fewer orgasms than men in sexual relationships?

In the framework of International Women's Day, specialists bring to the table a little-discussed topic: the so-called "orgasm gap", which describes the difference in the frequency with which men and women reach orgasm during sexual relations. Various international studies have shown that men reach climax more frequently than women, a difference that specialists link to cultural and educational factors, and to sexual practices that have historically prioritized male pleasure. One of the most cited investigations on the subject was published in the scientific journal Archives of Sexual Behavior, where data from more than 52,000 adult people in the United States were analyzed. The study found that 95% of heterosexual men affirmed to have orgasms almost always during sexual relations, while only 65% of heterosexual women said to experience the same. The work, led by researcher David A. Frederick, concluded that this difference is not solely due to biological aspects, but also to sexual dynamics that have historically prioritized male pleasure.

Cultural factors and lack of sexual education
Peruvian specialists agree that this gap is linked to the way female sexuality has been socially constructed, especially in Peru.

Peruvian sexologist Romina Castro has explained in various media outlets that many women grew up in contexts where talking about sexual pleasure was considered a taboo subject, which limits their knowledge of their own bodies and their ability to express desires in intimacy.

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According to the specialist, sex education in many Latin American countries has focused for years on reproduction or the prevention of pregnancies, leaving aside the well-being and female pleasure as part of sexual health.

The role of body knowledge

Another of the causes pointed out by specialists is the lack of communication about desires and preferences within the couple. Various experts in sexual health agree that self-knowledge and open dialogue are key to improving sexual life and reducing the so-called orgasmic gap. In many cases, women do not clearly express what type of stimulation they find pleasurable due to cultural taboos, shame, or fear of being judged, which limits the possibility of building a more satisfying sexual experience for both. From sexology, it is explained that female pleasure usually requires more time, varied stimulation, and an environment of emotional trust. Unlike the traditional sexual model focused on penetration, research has shown that many women reach orgasm more easily when there is direct stimulation of the clitoris, prolonged foreplay, and an interaction more attentive to the body's signals. Also, specialists point out that body self-awareness is fundamental. Knowing one's own erogenous zones, understanding how the body responds to different types of contact, and feeling comfortable with one's own sexuality allows women to communicate their preferences more clearly. This process also contributes to strengthening self-esteem and sexual autonomy. Communication in the couple
Experts agree that pleasure is part of integral health, as is physical and emotional well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) points out that sexual health is not limited to the absence of disease, but rather implies a state of physical, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences. In this sense, addressing sexuality from an informed perspective and free of taboos can contribute to more equitable relationships, improve the quality of life, and promote healthier emotional bonds. It also allows for dismantling myths that have invisibilized female pleasure for years and opening space for a broader understanding of sexuality. Source: INFOBAE