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Here’s a word that doesn’t have a scientific definition. It is generally a derogatory label used to refer to women and their sexual activity–most often to convey that a woman’s sex drive might be “too high”.
But before we get into all that….
We thought about posting a hilariously campy 1982 Olivia Newton-John video for this post, but we decided on the “promiscuous” Nelly Furtado because…well, because she’s Nelly and this video will get us in the mood to talk about sex.
We say “nymphomania” is not a scientific term because there are no specific criteria that define a nymphomaniac. “Nympho” has disparaging connotations and implies abnormality. A man with similar desires who enjoys a lot of sex is called a “stud” (or other names) and enjoys approval.
The concept of “nymphomania” was developed in 1771 by a French physician, referring to women who ate too much chocolate, read novels, and had impure thoughts. (All guilty, please rise!) Nearly 200 years later, in the 1970s, scientists conceded there was nothing abnormal with a woman who liked to have sex frequently, even with multiple partners. By then, however, the term had taken hold.
So, how much sex is too much sex?
As the famous sex researcher, Alfred Kinsey is quoted as saying “too much sex is when someone has more sex than you do.” Aside from Kinsey’s advice, here’s when it is a problem:
- when sexual activity interferes with every day activity and functioning
- when the need for sex is unquenchable and is never satiated
- when it includes having frequent orgasms and is not usually satisfying
- when sex is impersonal and has no emotional intimacy – then there is something to be concerned about … regardless of whether it’s a man or a woman’s sexual activity.
If this is happening to you, find a good professional with a non-judgmental ear, a compassionate attitude, and some good referrals.
Planned Parenthood of Northern New England’s Education Department carefully selects all weekly questions. All questions are actual inquiries made to PPNNE by college-aged students.
Should you have a question you would like to see included, please send an email to goddess@ppnne.org
