Many men believe that orgasm only comes with ejaculation, but psychosexual therapist Lorraine Grover and superintendent pharmacist Abbas Kanani explain there are actually six distinct types of male orgasm.
Ejaculation
This is the most familiar climax, involving the release of semen. 'It's the release of semen from the penis during orgasm which is usually achieved through physical or physiological sexual arousal,' says Kanani. He describes two phases: emission—sperm moving to the urethra and mixing with fluids—and the ejaculatory phase, where pelvic muscles contract. Only 60% of men reach this orgasm every time they have sex.
Pelvic orgasm
These orgasms result from pelvic floor contractions with little to no touch and may not involve ejaculation. 'This orgasm feels like internal pulsations radiating through the lower body,' says Grover. Pelvic floor exercises can increase intensity and help control ejaculation.
Prostate orgasm
Achieved through stimulation of the prostate gland, typically via anal sex or perineum stimulation. 'This orgasm feels like a slow build to a powerful, full-body release,' says Grover. Kanani notes these may feel more intense than ejaculatory orgasms, though research is limited. Many men avoid them due to stigma.
Dry orgasm
'A man can achieve climax without ejaculating or releasing even a small amount of semen,' says Kanani. Grover describes it as 'a more focused climax with less intensity but faster recovery.' Frequent dry orgasms may warrant a doctor's visit.
Blended orgasm
'A blended orgasm combines stimulation of the penis and prostate, creating a deeper, more layered orgasm,' says Grover. It feels like 'surface-level pleasure merged with a deeper full-body release.' Delayed ejaculation and Kegel exercises can help achieve it.
Multiple orgasms
Multiple orgasms in close succession are 'rare' for men, says Kanani, because of the refractory period. Grover explains the first orgasm typically needs to be dry. 'It feels like successive waves of pleasure with little or no need for a break.'
