This process is known as the sexual response cycle. Experts usually categorize the sexual response cycle in four phases spanning from the second you get turned on mentally or physically to the blissful, tapped-out close of events. Different bodies of thought proceed through the sexual response cycle in slightly different ways, with some separating certain parts of the sexual response cycle that others lump together. The Cleveland Clinic lists desire, or the feeling that you want to have sex , as the official start of the sexual response cycle, and for seriously good reason: It can be a huge part of getting mentally and physically ready for sex for some people. So, for some people with vaginas especially when in a shiny new relationship or when getting together with a new, exciting partner , desire might set off a sexual domino effect. But for others, desire may not kick in until after the sexual stuff has commenced consensually, of course. Your heart rate speeds up.

Clue is on a mission to help you understand your body, periods, ovulation, and so much more. Start tracking today. Sex drive, is complex and is affected by physical and emotional aspects. Sex is not just for procreation—it should also be pleasurable for every person involved. STIs are common and if caught early, may be treatable.

Sex can elicit a roller coaster of emotions, so much so it's oftentimes confusing what's actually going on— in both your body and your brain. Whether it's casual, committed, or somewhere in-between, you're always going to feel something. Even if it's just I want to have sex more.