The subjective orgasm experience (SOE) is a key dimension of human sexuality that includes different facets (affective, sensory, intimacy, and rewards), encompassing a psychological evaluation of the orgasm. While its relationship with sexual satisfaction has been studied, its connection to other non-sexual aspects, such as relationship satisfaction, has not been explored until now. This is particularly relevant in relationship research, as the relational dynamics of the LGBTIQA+ community have been historically underrepresented. In this regard, studies on SOE in this population are scarce, with a few recent exceptions.
A study published in Personal Relationships by researchers Pablo Mangas, Juan Carlos Sierra, and Carlos Pérez-Amorós addressed this issue by analyzing how different dimensions of SOE (i.e., affective, sensory, intimacy, and rewards) in the context of sexual relationships influence relationship satisfaction in 110 same-sex Spanish couples (53 male couples and 57 female couples).
Using a dyadic approach (which considers both partners in a relationship), the study examined both the individual effect (i.e., actor effect) of SOE dimensions on relationship satisfaction and the impact of one's own SOE on the partner's evaluation of the relationship (i.e., partner effect).
The results varied depending on the type of couple
In male couples, greater relationship satisfaction was associated with a more intense experience of orgasm in the affective dimension (i.e., emotions experienced during orgasm) but decreased when the partner perceived the orgasm as a more intimate experience (i.e., linking orgasm to deep emotional closeness or connection).
In female couples, however, relationship satisfaction increased when the partner valued the rewards dimension of the orgasm more (i.e., relaxation, tranquility, or well-being).
Additionally, in male couples, the greater the discrepancy in their perceptions of orgasm in the affective and intimacy dimensions, the lower the relationship satisfaction. This finding highlights the importance of a shared orgasm experience for relational well-being.
In female couples, no significant effect was found for these discrepancies, suggesting that the subjective experience of orgasm may play a different role in their relational dynamics. This emphasizes the need for gender-sensitive research that delves deeper into the factors influencing women's relationship satisfaction.
In summary, the study emphasizes the importance of the subjective orgasm experience in same-sex relationships, showing that the way orgasm is perceived in the context of sexual relationships can influence how individuals evaluate and feel satisfied with their relationship.
The differences found between male and female couples underscore the need to continue exploring how individual perceptions of orgasm can contribute differently to relationship quality. These findings can inform the study of relational dynamics, as well as sexual and couples therapy, by tailoring interventions to the specific needs of each couple
Reference
Mangas, P., Sierra, J. C., & Pérez-Amorós, C. (2025). Exploring intimate dynamics in same-sex couples: The role of the subjective orgasm experience in relationship satisfaction. Personal Relationships, 32, Article e70003. https://doi.org/10.1111/pere.70003
Contact
Carlos Pérez-Amorós - amoroscp@ugr.es