Sexual Identity

In the simplest terms, sex refers to the two groups that most living things are divided into (male and female) according to differences in their biology e.g. hormones, chromosomes and reproductive systems. Each year, a very small number of individuals are born with Differences of Sex Development (DSDs), which is a term used to describe some conditions in which a person is born with a reproductive anatomy that doesn’t fit the typical definitions of male or female. For more information on DSDs, visit DSD Families

Your sexual identity, or sexual orientation, is a term used to describe the sex of a person, or people, you are attracted to in a sexual or romantic way. Most people become aware of their sexual orientation when they reach puberty, but it is possible for these feelings to change over time, or never appear at all. Everyone has a sexual orientation and may describe themselves as;

• Heterosexual/Straight: a person physically and emotionally attracted to someone of the opposite sex, so a male attracted to a female and a female attracted to a male
• Gay: a male physically and emotionally attracted to another male or a female physically and emotionally attracted to another female (term more commonly used in males)
• Lesbian: a female physically and emotionally attracted to another female
• Homosexual (gay/lesbian): People who are homosexual are attracted to the same sex. Homosexual men are often called gay and homosexual women are often called lesbians but can also be called gay
• Bisexual/Bi: People who are bisexual are attracted to both males and females
• Pansexual: People who are attracted to other people regardless of their sex or gender identity
• Asexual/Ace: People who are asexual or ace don’t feel sexually attracted to anyone and feel no desire to have sex

Please note, this is not an exhaustive list. For an alternative and fuller list relating to sex and gender, please visit: Stonewall

“Coming out” describes when a person who is lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender first tells someone about their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Although this is most often done in the teenage years, around or shortly after puberty, for other people it can take many years for them to feel comfortable to disclose this information and so it should always be treated confidentially and with respect. For more information, please also see: Stonewall

When attending any sexual health clinics in Lanarkshire, it is extremely helpful if you are able to be honest and disclose your sexual orientation to the health professionals at your appointment. We understand not everyone is comfortable discussing what can be extremely personal information, but your information will be treated sensitively and confidentially and it is important so that staff can provide you with the correct care and advice.