What physiological process occurs during sexual arousal?

During sexual arousal, vasocongestion is the physiological process that takes place, which involves the engorgement of blood vessels in specific areas of the body, particularly in the genital region. This process is stimulated by sexual arousal signals from the brain and results in increased blood flow to the genitals, leading to swelling and heightened sensitivity. In males, this contributes to the erection of the penis, while in females, it can cause swelling of the clitoris and vaginal walls, enhancing sexual pleasure.

Vasoconstriction, which refers to the narrowing of blood vessels, does not occur during sexual arousal; instead, it would reduce blood flow to the genital area, which is counterproductive to the physical changes occurring during arousal. Hormonal release is indeed part of the overall sexual response, particularly involving hormones such as testosterone and estrogen; however, the term does not specifically address the immediate physiological changes. While hormonal release is part of the broader sexual response cycle, vasocongestion is the primary process specifically associated with the increased blood flow and engorgement that characterizes physical arousal.