In the Masters and Johnson model of the sexual response cycle, the "plateau" phase describes a state when arousal is near its peak but has not yet progressed to orgasm.
What does this intense, almost “on edge” feeling feel like? The body is ready, but the orgasmic reflex contractions have not yet begun. This state can last from seconds to several minutes.
How to prolong it consciously Keeping the intensity of stimulation at a constant, even level — neither decreasing nor increasing — often stops the process in this exact phase for a long time.
Physiological signs: During this phase, the outer third of the vagina noticeably stretches (the so-called "orgasmic platform"), breathing becomes shallow and rapid, and muscle tension reaches its maximum.
Why it's worth consciously practicing Those who learn to stay in this phase (instead of quickly "getting over it") often describe the final orgasm as significantly more intense than those achieved through direct, quick means.