Have you ever had so much fun on a roller coaster that you jumped right back in line to ride it again?

It’s not just adrenaline that makes thrill-seekers push their physical limits every chance they get. It’s the rush of endorphins and dopamine that induce a state of pleasure so intense they can’t help but keep going back for more.

There’s another hormone-inducing activity that even the most risk-averse regularly take part in: sex (including masturbation). Arousal alone is enough to trigger a surge in endorphins, dopamine, and the “love drug,” oxytocin — three hormones that work together to make you feel really, really good.

But if you’ve ever had an orgasm, you know the biggest pleasure payoff happens during and after the climax. And while doing it twice in a row requires a little more effort than stepping back into the amusement park queue, everyone — even people with penises — can learn how to have multiple orgasms. 

What happens when you orgasm?

Learning how to have multiple orgasms during masturbation or partnered sex starts with understanding what a climax really is. Let’s return to the roller coaster metaphor to break orgasm down into four phases:

The warm-up

Think of that moment at the amusement park when you’re nearing the front of the line. You can see the ride, and as your turn to board gets closer and closer, your excitement begins to build.

The lead-up to orgasm starts similarly: Something gets you sexually excited — erotica, sexual fantasies, or even just a juicy kiss. Your body experiences arousal, which increases blood flow to the genital area. For those with a vulva, the clitoris swells. For penis owners, arousal causes an erection.

The climb

You’re on the roller coaster now, but the car moves slowly at first. You pick up speed, climbing higher and higher toward the coaster’s peak, nervous and excited for the thrill that lies ahead. 

It’s the same with the phases of orgasm. As arousal builds, your heart rate and breathing pick up. Muscles throughout your body begin to tense. These sensations are sexual tension gathering steam. You’re already feeling good, but you know the best is yet to come.

The plunge

Your train car reaches the top and crests the hill, plunging you down so fast your stomach drops. Your heart pumps like crazy, and you’re simultaneously terrified and ecstatic.

In sex, this is the point when the build-up of sexual tension explodes. Orgasm hits, causing muscle contractions centered around the pelvic area — in the vagina and uterus, for vulva owners, or around the penis, prostate, and anus. This is the point where squirting or ejaculation happens, although an orgasmic experience doesn’t have to involve the release of bodily fluids (we’ll get into the differences between ejaculating and climaxing below).

The afterglow

When the ride ends, you coast back to the platform to unload. Your elevated heart rate is beginning to slow, but the pleasure hormones are still surging as you disembark.

Post-orgasm, your body shifts into relaxation mode. Muscles loosen, blood pressure drops, and a sense of tranquility (or sleepiness) washes over you. You might be ready for a nap — or ready for more.

7 techniques for having multiple orgasms

Why can you only orgasm once? There are dozens of answers to this question, and it’s up to you to figure out which ones apply to you. Maybe you’re rushing way too fast to the finish line, or maybe you’re not yet comfortable letting go completely in the bedroom. 

There’s also a chance that you always orgasm once, and you’re content with that. Going for multiple just isn’t for you. That’s totally okay. Sex looks different for everyone, and that includes orgasm. 

If you’re ready to crack the code (and step onto that roller coaster more than once), here are some tips and techniques that can bring you from the big O to the big OOO.

1. Prolong the pleasure with edging

Edging (also known as peaking or surfing) is the practice of coming right to the edge of ejaculation but not letting yourself go all the way. Edging builds sexual tension and can lead to orgasms that are both more powerful and more plentiful.

2. Spice it up with sex toys

Sex toys like vibrators help with multiple orgasms by providing consistent and varied stimulation — clitoral and otherwise. The right toy can be a game-changer in the quest for multiple orgasms. For penis-in-vagina (PIV) sex, try a vibrating cock ring, which leads to longer, harder erections capable of hitting the G-spot with G-force strength.

3. Mix up your routine

Changing sex positions, types of stimulation, or locations can prevent penis or clit overstimulation and keep arousal levels high. Sometimes, you could get so overstimulated that you can’t orgasm. There really can be too much of a good thing. 

4. Get your Kegels on

A strong pelvic floor can enhance the intensity and control of female orgasms. You can target the pelvic floor muscles with Kegel exercises, which involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic muscles. You don’t need any special equipment for Kegels, but toys like Ben Wa balls can help.

5. Stimulate your mind

Engaging in roleplay, reading erotic literature, or listening to audio erotica can significantly elevate arousal levels, paving the way for multiple climaxes.

6. Use your words

Good communication is the bedrock of any relationship, sexual or otherwise. Discuss your preferences and boundaries with your partner. Understanding each other's likes and dislikes can take intercourse to another level, making multiple orgasms more achievable.

7. Take your time

Engaging in extended foreplay will help build up arousal gradually, leading to a more fulfilling climax. Taking your time will also help you figure out how not to overstimulate yourself and help you not to ejaculate too soon. And after the first orgasm, engaging in sexual aftercare will help you both feel cared for, preparing you for another round.

Debunking the multiple orgasm myths

Some common myths make people write off the possibility of multiple orgasms, so we’re here to set the record straight.

Myth: Ejaculation is the same thing as orgasm

It’s common for people with penises to ejaculate when they orgasm, but ejaculating and orgasm are two different things. You can orgasm without ejaculating. Non-ejaculatory multiple orgasm even has a cute name: NEMO. 

With enough practice, you can teach your body to enjoy the sensation of orgasm several times before experiencing the intensity of ejaculation that triggers the start of the refractory period. Try going for a prostate orgasm or experimenting with different levels of pleasure.

Myth: Only women can experience multiple orgasms

With a can-do attitude and some technique, anyone can experience multiple orgasms. Just pay attention to your refractory period — the time it takes to cool down from an orgasm and rev back up again. No matter what kind of genitalia you’re working with, letting your mind and body work together to rebuild arousal is key.

Stimulating the mind and body with Quinn

Things like prostate or clitoral stimulation are a great way to strengthen arousal for a more powerful orgasmic experience. But orgasm is even more pleasurable when it comes with a combination of physical and mental stimulation. 

That’s why we made Quinn, the audio erotica app created by women, for the world. If you’re interested in edging, masturbating, or off-the-charts oral, the wide range of erotic content on Quinn is a great place to start.

To access thousands of audio stories and guided masturbation sessions, download the Quinn app for iOS or Android.