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Sexual orientation

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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.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.