Evolving ideas about the male refractory period

Abstract

• The male refractory period (MRP) continues to be a topic of discussion and debate within the field of sexual medicine. To date explanations rely on central descending (efferent) influences involving specific neurotransmitter systems. Herein we explore the issue of the male refractory period, identifying problems with current explanations, specifying the parameters of an adequate model, and suggesting possible mechanisms mediating this phenomenon.• We review the literature regarding existing explanations for the MRP and look to other systems of physiological regulation that might provide a model for the conceptualization of the MRP.• Our approach differs from traditional explanations in that it emphasizes the possible roles of various peripheral, rather than central, feedback (afferent) systems that affect peripheral autonomic functioning and response.• Yet our approach is consistent with other peripheral regulatory feedback systems controlling autonomic response related to such processes as heart rate, respiration, and gut motility.• Although direct empirical research supporting our approach is lacking, sufficient evidence exists to support the idea that such processes are not only possible but likely with respect to the male refractory period. We suggest several lines of research that might provide empirical support for this approach.

Caenorhabditis elegans male sensory-motor neurons and dopaminergic support cells couple ejaculation and post-ejaculatory behaviors

“…Much remains to be discovered concerning the molecular and structural pathways involved in post ejaculatory behavioral activity (Levin, 2009; Turley and Rowland, 2013). Mating is energy-costly and precludes participation in other behaviors such as feeding (Schneider et al, 2013).…”

“…Neurotransmitters and hormones such as serotonin and prolactin may extend the period of inactivity, while others such as dopamine and norepinephrine may shorten it (McIntosh and Barfield, 1984a, 1984b, 1984c; Buvat et al, 1985; Marson and McKenna, 1992). However, the basic structure and function of mating circuits that exhibit a period of inactivity are still being elucidated (Levin, 2009; Turley and Rowland, 2013). …”

“…We use satiation in the manuscript to refer to rodents. We added the following paragraph to the Discussion (paragraph starting “Much remains to be discovered concerning the molecular and structural pathways involved in post ejaculatory behavioral activity (Levin, 2009, Turley and Rowland, 2013)… since their functional reproductive span is very short”).…”

Normal male sexual function: emphasis on orgasm and ejaculation

“…This is a poorly understood phenomenon, with some investigators suggesting a central rather than spinal mechanism causing it (28). Elevated levels of PRL and serotonin after orgasm have been suggested as a potential cause; however, there is much debate about their exact role (29). More research is still needed in the area of male orgasm (20).…”

Pornography, preference for porn‐like sex, masturbation, and men's sexual and relationship satisfaction

“…However, ejaculation has been shown to increase prolactin (Brody & Krüger, 2006), a hormone that reduces sex drive (Krüger et al, 2003;Krüger, Haake, Hartmann, Schedlowski, & Exton, 2002). Postejaculatory increases in oxytocin (Levin, 2003(Levin, , 2009) and serotonin (Levin, 2009;Turley & Rowland, 2013) have also been speculated to play a role in PERT. Frequent masturbation (due to frequent pornography use) could undermine male porn users' sexual performance, arousability, or partnered sexual interest by keeping these porn users in a near-continual state of relative PERT, in which their arousal is suppressed.…”