Viacen that their sexual response may not proceed according to predictable stages. The clitoris is, for most females, the point of origination for sexual pleasure. It has thousands of nerve endings, making it highly sensitive. Portions of the clitoris extend deep into the vagina, allowing some women to get indirect clitoral stimulation through vaginal stimulation. Learn more about the clitoris here. For men, the head of the penis is similar to the clitoris in that it is often the most sensitive area. For sex to feel pleasurable, the brain has to interpret sexual sensations as pleasurable. Nerves in sexual areas of the body send specific signals to the brain, and the brain uses those signals to create various sexual sensations. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that help the brain communicate with other areas of the body. Several neurotransmitters have a role in sexual pleasure: Prolactin levels rise immediately following orgasm. This hormone might be related to reduced sexual response, which may explain the refractory period. Dopamine is a hormone linked with motivation and reward. It increases sexual arousal, and the body secretes it during the desire stage. Oxytocin, also known as the love or bonding hormone, promotes feelings of intimacy and closeness. The body releases it after orgasm.