Refractory period

The refractory period, as described by Andrew Huberman, is observed in both males and females. In men, the refractory period follows orgasm during which they cannot achieve another erection for some time. This period varies in length for different individuals and is influenced by prolactin levels. High prolactin levels, which rise post-orgasm, inhibit the dopamine that facilitates arousal, thereby creating this refractory period.

In women, the refractory period can also be overcome with adequate novel stimulation, potentially allowing for arousal and orgasm again. This is driven by the neurochemical interplay of dopamine, which can override the effects of prolactin that typically establish the refractory period. Here, dopamine promotes arousal, overriding the prolactin-driven refractory period 1.