390. The reproductive sphere makes one in a continuous series with the sphere of the protection of what is procreated, because the love of reproduction is continued into the love of what is procreated. The nature of the love of reproduction can be recognised from its pleasure, which is the highest and transcends all others. This is experienced in the reproductive state in men and notably in the state of reception in women. This extreme pleasure follows on with its love up to birth, and in that is fulfilled.