Sex addiction is a deeply personal problem. If you or your spouse has an addiction to sex, you probably are already very well aware of the pain it can cause and the rift it can create in your relationship. This article will address the definition and causes of sex addiction as well as its effects on both partners in the context of marriage.

What is a sex addiction?

A sex addiction is characterized by compulsive sexual behavior that continues and increases in intensity despite negative consequences. Sex addiction may include behaviors related to pornography, prostitution, masturbation, sex with anonymous partners, voyeurism, exhibitionism, strip club attendance, or other similar behaviors. For more information on sex addiction, please visit the sex addiction page.

What causes a sex addiction?

Many factors (individually or in combination) can contribute to the development of a sex addiction. Some are listed below:

• Exposure to pornography at an inappropriate age
• Past abandonment and fears of future abandonment
• Fears of rejection
• A need to escape from memories of an emotional, physical, or sexual trauma
• To seek pleasure/a high

How does a sex addiction affect a marriage?

• The relationship becomes strained as sexual expectations from one spouse become a burden to the other. The addicted spouse may begin to pressure the other spouse into having sex more frequently or into performing sexual acts/behaviors that the other spouse may not be comfortable with. Unlike other addictions, in which the addict’s interaction with the substance/behavior of addiction only affects them directly, sex addiction can have an extreme emotional impact on the other partner who may find themselves being used like a “drug” to fulfill the addict’s craving.

• The addict may no longer feel fulfilled by sexual encounters with their spouse. If the spouse is unable to keep pace with the addict’s demands for more “advanced” sexual acts more frequently, the addicted spouse may begin looking for a way to satisfy their need elsewhere. The sex addict may begin and maintain affairs, which may, in turn, cause the other spouse to seek divorce.

How can I get help for a sex addiction?

Before the addiction progresses any further, you should seek professional help for the problem. eDrugRehab has worked with many individuals, couples, and families to get sex addicts help for their addiction. If your spouse refuses to admit to having a problem, your first step will likely be an intervention (Read Intervention FAQ). However, if you both acknowledge that you need help to overcome your sexual addiction, eDrugRehab can guide your selection of a rehab facility. The sooner you begin the path to recovery, the sooner your relationship can heal and blossom to its full potential. Visit the Contact Us page to learn how you can speak with an addiction or intervention specialist today.