Compulsive sexual behavior

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Prevention Lifestyle and home remedies

Definition

Sexual expression is a natural part of a well-rounded life. But if you have an overwhelming urge for sex and are so intensely preoccupied with it that your health, job, relationships or other areas of your life are affected, you may have compulsive sexual behavior.

Compulsive sexual behavior is sometimes called hypersexuality, nymphomania or erotomania. Others call it sexual addiction — comparing the "high" of sexual activity with alcohol, drug or gambling addictions. But compulsive sexual behavior is generally considered an impulse control disorder — a disorder in which you can't resist the temptation or drive to perform an act that's harmful to you or someone else. In compulsive sexual behavior, a normally enjoyable behavior is taken to an extreme.

No matter what it's called, compulsive sexual behavior is a very real problem that interferes with everyday living and can even jeopardize your health. But with treatment and self-help programs, you can learn to manage compulsive sexual behavior and develop a healthier sexual life.

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Symptoms