Final answer:
The medial preoptic area of the hypothalamus and the amygdala are key brain areas where E+P act to induce sexual behavior and motivation, respectively. The hypothalamus is linked with capability, while the amygdala is associated with motivation to engage in sexual activity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The brain area where estrogen and progesterone (abbreviated as E+P) act to induce sexual behavior is primarily the hypothalamus and associated limbic system structures, particularly the medial preoptic area and the amygdala. The medial preoptic area of the hypothalamus is involved in the ability to engage in sexual behavior, but does not directly affect sexual motivation. On the other hand, the amygdala, along with the nucleus accumbens, plays a key role in the motivation for sexual behavior, without directly affecting the physical ability to engage in such behavior.
Research using animal models has shown that when the medial preoptic area is damaged, it disrupts the actual performance of sexual acts, yet the motivation remains unaffected. Conversely, damage to the amygdala or nucleus accumbens decreases the motivation to engage in sexual behavior while preserving the capacity to perform sexual acts. This kind of research highlights the distinction between the mechanisms of sexual motivation and sexual ability within the brain.
Understanding the physiological mechanisms by which hormones and brain structures contribute to sexual behavior and motivation can have broader implications for comprehending human sexuality and treating sexual dysfunctions.