What is the Origin of Sexual Receptivity?

The concept is a fundamental construct in reproductive physiology and ethology, emphasizing the necessary synchronization between the female's internal endocrine state and external behavioral signals. The word receptivity denotes a passive willingness, often in response to male courtship or mounting attempts. This state is hormonally driven to maximize the probability of fertilization and successful reproduction.

What is the Mechanism of Sexual Receptivity?

Sexual receptivity is tightly regulated by the surge and subsequent decline of ovarian steroid hormones, primarily estradiol and, synergistically, progesterone. Estradiol acts on the hypothalamus and other brain regions to disinhibit the motor circuits that govern receptive posture. This hormonal priming ensures that the behavioral willingness to mate is temporally aligned with the peak period of fertility, representing a precise neuroendocrine-behavioral coordination.

Sexual Receptivity ∞ Area

Sexual Receptivity

Meaning

Sexual Receptivity refers to the physiological and behavioral state in a female mammal that indicates her willingness and ability to engage in copulation. This is a highly time-sensitive phase, generally coinciding with the fertile period of the reproductive cycle, and is characterized by specific behavioral displays, such as Lordosis Behavior in many species. In clinical practice, the term is used to describe the underlying biological capacity for sexual engagement, distinct from subjective desire.