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. The body releases serotonin, which supports feelings of well-being and happiness, during the arousal phase. Norepinephrine dilates and constricts blood vessels, making the genitals more sensitive. The body releases this during sexual stimulation. Reasons that sex might not feel good Sex is not pleasurable for everyone. In fact, some people feel pain during sex. This is much more prevalent in females. Around 75% of females report experiencing pain during sex at some point during their lives. Around 10–20% females in the United States experience regular sexual pain, or dyspareunia.