Compulsive sexual behavior may involve a variety of normally pleasurable sexual experiences. Examples include masturbation, cybersex, multiple sexual partners, consuming pornography, or paying for sex. When these sexual behaviors become essential elements of your life, difficult to control, and disruptive or harmful to yourself or others, they may be considered compulsive sexual behaviors.

Regardless of the name or exact nature, untreated compulsive sexual behavior can damage self-esteem, relationships, careers, health, and other people. However, with treatment and self-help, you can learn to control compulsive sexual behavior.

Seek help if you feel you’ve lost control of your sexual behavior, especially if it causes problems for you or others. Compulsive sexual behavior often worsens over time, so seek help as soon as you recognize there may be a problem.