Sex addiction is a real medical condition, new study reveals
Sex addiction – just like any other addiction – is real, with those affected suffering from a medical condition caused by high levels of the 'love hormone' oxytocin, new research shows.
The latest discovery could pave the way for the development of a drug that targets this, in order to at least partially cure 'hypersexual disorder'. Meanwhile, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) also has positive effects on the condition.
For those who are genuine sex addicts, the study has linked infidelity with too much oxytocin, as it can make men, or women, attracted to many people at the same time. The hormone, which boosts 'bonding', is also deemed to make sex feel more rewarding.
Lead author Dr Andreas Chatzittofis, of the University of Cyprus in Nicosia, said, "We discovered that men with compulsive sexual behaviour disorder (CSBD) had higher oxytocin levels compared with healthy men.
"CBT led to a reduction in both hypersexual behaviour and oxytocin levels."
During the study, which is published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, an international team compared blood samples from 64 male sex addicts and 38 healthy peers.
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The sex addicts had more oxytocin, 30 of whom went through a CBT program, which led to a significant reduction in their oxytocin levels after the treatment.
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Dr Chatzittofis said, "Oxytocin plays an important role in sex addiction and may be a potential drug target for future pharmacological treatment."
'Hypersexual disorder' involves excessive, persistent sexual behaviours related to various mood states, with afflicted individuals acting on impulse and having less self-control, leading them to compulsively seek out sex to 'satisfy' their addiction.
Oxytocin is produced by the hypothalamus, a small region of the brain, and is secreted by the pituitary gland into the bloodstream.
The hormone plays a key role in sexual behaviour, as abnormal amounts can lead to sex addiction, say the study's researchers.
The condition is estimated to affect one in 10 men and one in 12 women, though many refuse to believe it is real, with sufferers often facing skepticism and perceived to be using it an excuse for promiscuity or cheating.
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But now, offering more weight to the theory, researchers say they have found differences in the genetic make-up of sex addicts.
It can drastically affect the lives of those suffering, as well as those they are involved with, leading to relationship breakdowns, depression and anxiety.
In 2018, the World Health Organisation declared compulsive sexual behaviour, commonly called sex addiction, as a mental illness for the first time.
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Controversially, it was listed on the International Classification of Diseases list, which is used to study healthy problems, injuries and causes of death.
The disorder was defined as a "persistent pattern of failure to control intense, repetitive sexual impulses or urges resulting in repetitive sexual behaviour."
Not all doctors agree the condition should be included, while some view the label as potentially shaming.
If you want to find out more about sex addiction, or find out what help is out there, speak to your GP or visit the NHS website.
