Effects of paced mating and intromissive stimulation on feminine sexual behavior and estrus termination in the cycling rat

The effects of differential mating stimulation on sexual behavior and estrus length were examined in cycling rats that could or could not self-regulate, or pace, the timing of sexual contact. Female rats (Rattus norvegicus) received 30 paced, 30 nonpaced, or 15 nonpaced followed by 15 paced intromissions during mating tests. Decreases in sexual responsiveness were seen during the second half of testing; pacing was associated with greater inter-intromission intervals, decreased proceptivity, and increased rejection behavior at this time. Female rats pacing during the second test half behaved similarly, regardless of prior treatment, showing that the number rather than the timing of prior intromissions affected subsequent behavior. However, estrus length was decreased by prior paced mating. These data suggest that changes in sexual responsivity occur throughout estrus and that the nature of these changes is differentially dependent on the type of mating stimulation received.