Dr. Dennis Page Gives an In-Depth Look at Your Brain on Sex

February, 2011 - 19th century philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer once wrote, "The desire for intercourse is the genius of the genus." And what an intricate genius it is! It goes without saying that sex is vital to the survival of the human race - or any species, for that matter. However, for humans, sex is dual-purpose. Not only do we rely on sex for reproduction, but also for pleasure. According to Dr. Dennis Page, Medical Director of BodyLogicMD of Boise, despite everything going on between your legs, the real action is happening between your ears.

"When we're sexually aroused, the limbic system within the brain is flooded with a surge of neurochemicals - these are the chemical messengers that forge emotions, feelings of attachment and even love," shares Boise bioidentical hormones expert Dr. Page. "Your overall pleasure depends on the release of these chemicals, which determine the intensity of your sexual climax."

Sexuality helps to fortify the bond between a man and a woman - and not just through intercourse alone. Sexuality is fused to each kiss, each touch and each embrace. Even a casual glance can be teeming with broiling lust. While emotions flood the brain in what seems like mere seconds, the process is actually quite complex.

"Initially, when we begin to feel an attraction towards someone of the opposite sex, our heart rate increases and blood levels of adrenaline and the "stress hormone" known as cortisol begin rise," says Dr. Page. "This is then followed by the release of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that induce an intense rush of pleasure, similar to the stimulatory effects of cocaine and amphetamine."

Attachment on the other hand is different story. The human body is equipped with neurohormones, such as oxytocin and vasopressin. Oxytocin is a hormone released during orgasm and scientists believe that it is capable of deepening feelings of attachment. This is why relationship coaches will place such a high emphasis on couples engaging in sexual activity on a regular basis - the more often you're having sex, the closer you and partner will become. Vasopressin is another hormone released during sex that also plays an important role in long-term commitment. Several studies have concluded that fear of commitment is due in part to a genetic variation in vasopressin receptors.

From an evolutionary standpoint, sexuality is an intrinsic part of who we are. Our inherent urge to reproduce is constantly flowing through our veins and is vital to ensure the survival of our species as a whole.

More about Dr. Page

Dennis Page, M.D. received his BS degree from Brigham Young University in Utah in 1985. He later attended the University of Health Sciences/Chicago Medical School, where he received his medical degree in 1992. Dr. Page completed an Internship in Preliminary Medicine at St. Joseph's hospital in Phoenix in1993 and then fulfilled his Anesthesiology Residency at the University of Michigan hospital. Dr. Page is Board Certified in Anesthesiology and is a Dipolmatand a member of the Fellowship for Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine.