Asexuality, like homosexuality, bisexuality and heterosexuality, is a sexual orientation. In simple terms it can be defined as the absence of interest or desire of indulging in sexual activity. In today’s health article we attempt to discuss a few myths and facts about asexuality.
Myth: Asexuality means no sexuality
Truth: It is indeed a type of sexuality! Asexuality is one of the types of sexual orientation, just like homosexuality or heterosexuality. It is a sexual orientation in which your sexuality is not oriented anywhere—it is not the same as having no sexuality or sexual feelings. Asexual people, like everyone else, have hormones. Masturbation is common among asexual people, and there are asexual people who have sex for a variety of reasons and enjoy it. Some asexual people are romantically but not sexually attracted to others. Because asexuality is a spectrum, the ways in which asexuality is experienced can vary.
Myth: Asexual = Anti-sex
Truth: Asexual people are, no doubt, repelled by the idea of sex or having sex. However, such feelings aren't always shared by others. The stereotype that asexual persons are rather against other people expressing their sexuality and that all asexual individuals can't stand sex discussions is rather baffling. As a result, asexual people are excluded from key sexuality dialogues. The truth is, being asexual and having sex-positive attitudes is perfectly viable and extremely frequent.
Myth: Asexuality is a lifestyle choice or just a phase
Truth: This misunderstanding originates from the belief that asexuality is a personal choice rather than a valid sexual orientation. Because they can show in similar ways, asexuality is frequently confused with celibacy or abstinence. Celibacy is generally defined in modern society as being sexually abstinent, generally for religious reasons. Indeed, many asexuals aren't interested in having sex with other people, but that's due to their sexual orientation, not their attitudes about sexual conduct. Asexuality is not a lifestyle choice, but celibacy is. Being an incel should not be confused with asexuality. People do not become asexual because they are unable to find sex.
Myth: They haven't found "the one" yet
Truth: It's very common for asexuals to hear "You just haven't found the right one." As a society, we have a propensity to view people who do not fit into specific sexual categories as having yet to find the proper man or woman. Asexuals, on the other hand, aren't waiting for something they desire; they're waiting for something they don't want.
Myth: Asexuals barely exist
Truth: They do exist! There are many asexual folks out there, but many of them aren't completely out, and some haven't recognized there's a name for what they're going through because of the lack of visibility. While there is a shortage of study concerning the asexual population, it is estimated that roughly 1% of the population is asexual—but this is based on studies where the subjects were likely aware of asexuality and were out enough to identify as such. There are probably more asexuals than we realize, but even if we only account for 1% of the population, that's still tens of millions of asexuals.
Overall, there is no such thing as a choice in sexuality. In terms of who they are as people, asexuals are no different from the rest of us. The sole distinction between asexuals and people of other sexual orientations is that asexuals aren't interested in sex in the first place. There's nothing wrong with that or out of the ordinary about it. Some people are just born with different sexual orientations. It is what it is! Do not hesitate to reach out for support if it gets too much to take.
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