Visayas State University Alangalang

Brgy. Binongtoan Alangalang, Leyte

Telephone: 525-0344 local 1098
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.vsu.edu.ph

MODULE 2: THE DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF THE SELF

LESSON 2.2: Sexual Self

LESSON SUMMARY:

The Sexual Self

The gonads (reproductive glands that produce sex cells (gametes); ovary and testis)
start to form until about the eighth week of embryonic development. In the early stages of
human development, male and female embryonic reproductive structures are alike and are
said to be in the indifferent stage. The development of the accessory structures and external
genitalia begins when the primary reproductive structures are formed. The formation of male
and female structures depends on a person’s testosterone. Once formed, testosterone is
released by the embryonic testes and the formation of the duct system and external genitalia
follows. In the case of female embryos that form ovaries, it will cause female ducts and
external genitalia development since the testosterone hormone is not produced.

The intervention in the normal pattern of sex hormone production in the embryo can
cause strange abnormalities. For example, if the embryonic testes fail to produce
testosterone, a genetic male develops the female accessory structures and external genitalia.
On the other hand, the embryo has ovaries but may also develop male accessory glands and
ducts, male reproductive organ, and empty scrotum if a genetic female is exposed to
testosterone (as in the case of a mother with androgen-producing tumor of her adrenal gland.
As a result, pseudo hermaphrodites are formed. These are the individuals who have accessory
reproductive structures that do not match their gonads. True hermaphrodites, on the other
hand, refer to individuals who possess both ovarian and testicular tissues, but this is a rare
condition in nature. As of now, several hermaphrodites undergo sex change operation to have
their external genitalia fit with their inner selves (gonads).

About one month before birth, a critical event for reproductive organs development
takes place where the male testes formed in the abdominal cavity at approximately the same
location as the female ovaries, descend to enter the scrotum. If this normal event fails, it may
lead to cryptorchidism where it usually occurs in young males and causes sterility (also risk
factor for cancer of the testes). With this, surgery is usually performed during childhood to
solve this problem.

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 Furthermore, the abnormality in the separation of chromosomes during meiosis may
lead to congenital defects of the reproductive system. For example, males who have extra
female sex chromosome possess normal male accessory structures, but atrophy (to shrink)
of their testes causes them to be sterile. Other abnormalities result when an offspring has
only one sex chromosome. XO female appears normal but lacks ovaries. YO males die during
development. Other much less serious conditions such as phismosis (narrowing of male
foreskin of the reproductive structure and misplace opening of urethra) also affect males.

The period of life where the reproductive organs grow to their adult size and become
functional due to the influence of gonadal hormones (male: testosterone; female: estrogen)
is called puberty. This is generally between the ages of 10 and 15 years old. Eventually, the
reproductive capability continuously perform its functions until old age in males and
menopause in females.

The changes that take place during the puberty is the same in sequence in all
individuals but the age which they occur varies among individuals. As males reach the age of
13, puberty is characterized by the increase of the reproductive organs size followed by the
appearance of hair in the pubic area, axillary, and face. The reproductive organs continue to
develop for two years until sexual maturation marked by the presence of matured semen in
the male testes.

On the other hand, the budding of female’s breasts usually occurs at the age of 11 and
signals puberty stage. The first menstrual cycle of females which happens two years after the
start of puberty is called menarche. The hormones play a significant role in the regulation of
ovulation and female fertility.

Diseases Associated with the Reproductive System

The most common problems associated with the reproductive system in adults are
infections. In young women, elderly, and those who have low disease resistance, vaginal
infections are more common to them. Usually, the infections include those caused by
Escherichia coli (E. coli) which spreads through the digestive tract, sexually transmitted
microorganisms such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and herpes virus; and yeast (a type or fungus).
Untreated vaginal infections may spread throughout the female reproductive tract that may

Vision: A globally competitive university for science, technology, and environmental conservation.
Mission: Development of a highly competitive human resource, cutting-edge scientific knowledge
and innovative technologies for sustainable communities and environment.
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 lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and sterility. Sometimes, problems that include painful
and abnormal menses may also be due to hormonal imbalance or infection.

On the other hand, prostatitis, urethritis, and epididymitis are the most common male
inflammatory conditions where all of which may follow sexual contacts in which the
microorganisms of sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s) are transmitted. The inflammation
of the testes (orchiditis) is rather uncommon but is serious for it may cause sterility. In an
adult male, orchiditis most commonly follows mumps.

The major threat to reproductive organs is the neoplasm. Breast and cervix tumors are
the most common adult female reproductive cancers and prostate cancer for adult males.

Usually, natural decrease in the function of ovaries follows. This is characterized by

decreased estrogen production which may lead to irregular ovulation and shorter menstrual
period. Consequently, the menses and ovulation entirely stop, ending childbearing ability. With
this, menopause occurs where females no longer experience menstruation. After menopause,
estrogen production may still continue but the ovaries stop functioning as endocrine organs.
If estrogen is no longer released from the body, the reproductive organ and breasts start to
shrink (atrophy). The vagina becomes dry which causes sexual intercourse become painful
(especially if n frequent) and infections in the vagina become increasingly common. Irritability,
intense vasodilation, gradual thinning of the skin, slowly rising blood cholesterol level, loss of
bone mass and other mood changes (depression in some) are some of the consequences of
estrogen deficiency. Low-dose estrogen-progestin is prescribed by some physicians to help
women through this difficult period and to prevent some complications in the skeletal and
cardiovascular system.

Capability seems unending although aging men show a steady decline in testosterone
secretion.

Erogenous Zone

Erogenous zones refer to parts of the body that are primarily receptive and increase
sexual arousal when touched in a sexual manner. Some of the commonly known erogenous
zones are the mouth, breasts, genitals, and anus. Erogenous zones may vary from one
person to another. Some people may enjoy being touched in a certain area more than the
other areas. Other common areas of the body that can be aroused easily may include the
neck, thighs, abdomen, and feet.

Human Sexual Behavior

Human sexual behavior is defined as any activity – solitary, between two persons, or
in a group – that induces sexual arousal (Gebhard, P.H. 2017). There are two major factors
that determine human sexual behavior: the inherited sexual response patterns that have
evolved as a means of ensuring reproduction and that become part of each individual’s
genetic inheritance, and the degree of restraint or other types of influence exerted on the
individual by society in the expression of his sexuality.

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 Types of Behavior

The various types of human sexual behavior are usually classified according to the
gender and number of participants. There is solitary behavior involving only one individual,
and there is sociosexual behavior involving more than one person. Sociosexual behavior is
generally divided into heterosexual behavior (male with female) and homosexual behavior
(male with male or female with female). If three or more individuals are involved, it is, possible
to have heterosexual and homosexual activity simultaneously (Gebhard, P.H. 2017).

1. Solitary Behavior

Self-gratification means self-stimulation that leads to sexual arousal and generally

sexual climax. Usually, most self-gratification takes place in private as an end in itself but
can also be done in a sociosexual relationship.
Self-gratification, generally beginning at or before puberty, is very common among
young male, but becomes less frequent or is abandoned when sociosexual activity is
available. Consequently, self-gratification is most frequent among unmarried. There are more
males who perform acts of self-gratification than females. The frequencies greatly vary
among individuals and it usually decreases as soon as they develop sociosexual relationships.
Majority of males and females have fantasies of some sociosexual activity while they
gratify themselves. The fantasy frequently involves idealized sexual patterns and activities
that the individual has not experienced and might even avoid in real life.
Nowadays, humans are frequently being exposed to sexual stimuli especially from
advertising and social media. Some adolescents become aggressive when they respond to
such stimuli. The rate of teenage pregnancy is increasing in our time. The challenge is to
develop self-control in order to balance suppression and free expression. Adolescents need
to control their sexual response in order to prevent premarital sex and acquire sexually
transmitted disease.

2. Sociosexual Behavior

Heterosexual behavior is the greatest amount of sociosexual behavior that occurs

between only one male and female. It usually begins in childhood and may be motivated by
curiosity, such as showing or examining genitalia. There is varying degree of sexual impulse
and responsiveness among children. Physical contact involving necking or petting is
considered as an ingredient of the learning process and eventually of courtship and the
selection of a marriage partner.
Petting differs from hugging, kissing, and generalized caresses of the clothed body to
practice involving stimulation of the genitals. Petting may be done as an expression of
affection and a source of pleasure, preliminary to coitus. Petting has been regarded by others
as a near-universal human experience and is important not only in selecting the partner but as
a way of learning how to interact with another person sexually.
Coitus, the insertion of the male reproductive structure into the female reproductive
organ, is viewed by society quiet differently depending upon the marital status of the
individuals. Majority of human societies allow premarital coitus, at least under certain
circumstances. In modern Western society, premarital coitus is more likely to be tolerated but
not encouraged if the individuals intend marriage. Moreover, in most societies, marital coitus
is considered as an obligation. Extramarital coitus involving wives is generally condemned
and, if permitted, is allowed only under exceptional conditions or with specified persons.
Societies are becoming more considerate towards males than females who engage in
extramarital coitus. This double standard of morality is also evident in premarital life.
Postmarital coitus (i.e., coitus by separated, divorced or widowed persons) is almost always
ignored. There is a difficulty in enforcing abstinence among sexually experienced and usually
older people for societies that try to confine coitus in married couples.

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 A behavior may be interpreted by society or the individual as erotic (i.e. capable of
engendering sexual response) depending on the context in which the behavior occurs. For
instance, a kiss may be interpreted as a gesture of expression or intimacy between couples
while others may interpret is as a form of respect or reverence, like when kissing the hand of
an elder or someone in authority. Examination and touching someone’s genitals are not
interpreted as a sexual act especially when done for medical purposes. Consequently, the
apparent motivation of the behavior greatly determines its interpretation.

Physiology of Human Sexual Response

Sexual response follows a pattern of sequential stages or phases when sexual

activity is continued.

1. Excitement Phase – it is caused by increase in pulse and blood pressure; a sudden

rise in blood supply to the surface of the body resulting in increased skin temperature, flushing,
and swelling of all distensible body parts (particularly noticeable in the male reproductive
structure and female breasts), more rapid breathing, the secretion of genital fluids, vaginal
expansion, and a general increase in muscle tension. These symptoms of arousal eventually
increase to a near maximal physiological level that leads to the next stage.
2. Plateau Phase – it is generally a brief duration. If stimulation is continued, orgasm
usually occurs.
3. Sexual Climax – it is marked by a feeling of abrupt, intense pleasure, a rapid increase
in pulse rate and blood pressure, and spasms of the pelvic muscle causing contractions of
the female reproductive organ and ejaculation by the male. It is also characterized by
involuntary vocalizations. Sexual climax may last for a few seconds (normally not over ten),
after which the individual enters the resolution phase.
4. Resolution Phase – it is the last stage that refers to the return to a normal or
subnormal physiological state. Males and females are similar in their response sequence.
Whereas males return to normal even if stimulation continues, but continued stimulation can
produce additional orgasms in females. Females are physically capable of repeated orgasms
without the intervening “rest period” required by males.

Nervous System Factors

The entire nervous system plays a significant role during sexual response. The
autonomic system is involved in controlling the involuntary responses. In the presence of a
stimulus capable enough of initiating a sexual response, the efferent cerebrospinal nerves
transmit the sensory messages to the brain. The brain will interpret the sensory message and
dictate what will be the immediate and appropriate response of the body. After interpretation
and integration of sensory input, the efferent cerebrospinal nerves receive commands from
the brain and send them to the muscles; and the spinal cord serves as a great transmission
cable. The muscles contract in response to the signal coming from the motor nerve fibers
while glands secrete their respective products. Hence, sexual response is dependent on the
activity of the nervous system.

The hypothalamus and the limbic system are the parts of the brain believed to be
responsible for regulating the sexual response, but there is no specialized “sex center” that
has been located in the human brain. Animal experiments show that each individual has coded
in its brain two sexual response patterns, one for mounting (masculine) behavior and one for
mounted (feminine) behavior. Sex hormones can intensify the mounting behavior of
individuals. Normally, one response pattern is dominant and the other latent can still be

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Mission: Development of a highly competitive human resource, cutting-edge scientific knowledge
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 initiated when suitable circumstances occur. The degree to which such innate patterning
exists in humans is still unknown.

Apart from brain-controlled sexual responses, there is some reflex (i.e., not brain-
controlled) sexual response. This reflex is mediated by the lower spinal cord and leads to
erection and ejaculation for male, vaginal discharges and lubrication for female when the
genital and perineal areas are stimulated. But still, the brain can overrule and suppress such
reflex activity – as it does when an individual decides that a sexual response is socially
inappropriate.

Sexual Problems

Sexual problems may be classified as physiological, psychological, and social in origin.

Any given problem may involve all three categories.

Physiological problems are the least among the three categories. Only a small number
of people suffer from diseases that are due to abnormal development of the genitalia or that
part of the neurophysiology controlling sexual response. Some common physiologic
conditions that can disturb sexual response can include vaginal infections, retroverted uteri,
prostatitis, adrenal tumors, diabetes, senile changes of the vagina, and cardiovascular
problems. Fortunately, the majority of physiological sexual problems can be resolved through
medication or surgery while problems of the nervous system that can affect sexual response
are more difficult to treat.

Psychological problems comprise by far the largest category. They are usually caused
by socially included inhibitions, maladaptive attitudes, ignorance, and sexual myths held by
society. An example of the latter is the belief that good, mature sex must involve rapid erection,
prolonged coitus, and simultaneous orgasm. Magazines, marriage books, and general sexual
folklore often strengthen these demanding ideals, which are not always achieved; therefore,
can give rise to feelings of inadequacy anxiety and guilt. Such resulting negative emotions can
definitely affect the behavior of an individual.

Premature emission of semen is a common problem, especially for young males.

Sometimes this is not the consequence of any psychological problem but the natural result of
excessive tension in a male who has been sexually deprived. Erectile impotence is almost
always of psychological origin in males under 40; in older males, physical causes are more
often involved. Fear of being impotent frequently causes impotence, and, in many causes, the
afflicted male is simply caught up in a self-perpetuating problem that can be solved only by
achieving a successful act of coitus. In other cases, the impotence may be the result of
disinterest in the sexual partner, fatigue, and distraction because of nonsexual worries,
intoxication, or other causes – such occasional impotency is common and requires no
therapy.

Ejaculatory impotence, which results from the inability to ejaculate in coitus, is

uncommon and is usually of psychogenic origin. It appears to be associated with ideas of
contamination or with memories of traumatic experiences. Occasional ejaculatory inability
can be possibly expected in older men or in any male who has exceeded his sexual capacity.

Vaginismus is a strong spasm of the pelvic musculature constricting the female

reproductive organ so that penetration is painful or impossible. It can be due to anti-sexual
conditioning or psychological trauma that serves as an unconscious defense against coitus.

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Mission: Development of a highly competitive human resource, cutting-edge scientific knowledge
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 It can be treated by psychotherapy and by gradually dilating the female reproductive organ
with increasingly large cylinders.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s) are infections transmitted from an infected

person to an uninfected person through sexual contact. STD’s can be caused by bacteria,
viruses, or parasites. Examples include gonorrhea, genital herpes, human papillomavirus
infection, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
(AIDS), chlamydia, and syphilis (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the
National Institute of Health of the United States 2017).

The following list of diseases is based on Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance

2016 of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention.

1. Chlamydia
2. Gonorrhea
3. Syphilis
4. Chancroid
5. Human Papillomavirus
6. Herpes Simplex Virus
7. Trichomonas Vaginalis

Natural and Artificial Methods of Contraception

Natural Method Artificial Methods

The natural family planning methods do Any other methods of contraception that are not
not involve any chemical or foreign body identified as natural are considered as artificial
introduction into the human body. People methods. Some of them are listed below:
who are very conscious of their religious
a. Oral Contraceptives
beliefs are more inclined to use the natural
way of birth control and others follow such b. Transdermal Patch
natural methods because they are cost- c. Vaginal Ring
effective. d. Subdermal Implants
e. Hormonal Injections
a. Abstinence f. Intrauterine Device
b. Calendar Method g. Chemical Barriers
c. Basal Body Temperature h. Diaphragm
d. Cervical Mucus Method i. Cervical Cap
e. Symptothermal Method j. Male Condoms
f. Ovulation detection k. Female Condoms
g. Coitus Interruptus l. Surgical Method

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Mission: Development of a highly competitive human resource, cutting-edge scientific knowledge
and innovative technologies for sustainable communities and environment.
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