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sexual orientation

your sexual orientation describes how you are attracted romantically and sexually to other people. for example, a person may be:

  • heterosexual—attracted only or almost only to the other binary (male/female) gender.
  • gay—attracted only or almost only to those of the same gender.
  • bisexual—attracted both to people of their own binary gender and to those of the other binary gender.
  • pansexual—attracted to those of any gender.
  • asexual—not sexually attracted to any gender. this is different from deciding not to have sex with anyone (abstinence or celibacy).

many people first become aware of their sexual orientation during the preteen and teen years.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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