The sexual addict: a challenge for the primary care provider.

Sexual compulsion is now recognized as a true addictive process that may manifest itself through a wide range of behaviors. Recognition of this disorder in primary care settings may be difficult because of the ego defenses of denial and rationalization that characterize this disorder. Cues in the medical and sexual history as well as behavioral cues may suggest the presence of sexual addiction. The alert primary care provider should play a significant role in the recognition of sexual addiction.