Scientists at New Jersey’s Rutgers University are trying to figure out, among other things, how orgasms stimulate parts of the brain so that scientists can use the information to help people control feelings of depression and anxiety.

The video is compiled of 20 snapshots of PhD student and sex therapist Nan Wise’s brain over the course of the 7 minutes as she approaches orgasm, reaches orgasm and then enters a quiet period. Wise is using this research as part of her dissertation. Oxygen utilization levels are displayed on a spectrum from dark red (lowest activity) to yellow/white (highest). As can be observed, an orgasm leads to almost the entire brain illuminating yellow, indicating that most brain systems become active at orgasm.

Several regions of the brain are activated before, during, and after the orgasm, most notably the hypothalamus, which releases the chemical oxytocin, which causes pleasurable sensations and signals the uterus to contract. (video source: by www.thevisualmd.com)