Asexuality and medical appointments – a guide for DCHS colleagues
This guide, produced by our LGBTQIA+ staff network, is designed to help clinicians and others who support patients in clinical settings to care for asexual people in ways which make them feel understood and included.
Being Asexual sometimes makes certain medical appointments a little awkward or embarrassing. For example I am on the pill for medical reasons and so each time the annual review comes round I get asked many questions that are not applicable to me as it’s assumed that I’m on the pill for contraceptive reasons (for example practicing safe sex, what to do if you miss a tablet etc.). I think it’s important to not assume that everyone that comes for an appointment (even when that appointment is for something like the pill) is sexually active and wanting to prevent pregnancy. Instead, there may be other reasons to be on the pill and the individual may not be sexually active (whether that’s due to their sexuality, religion or being celibate). There may also be reason to be sensitive to the possibility that pregnancy is something that they would want but isn’t a possibility (again for example due to health reasons). It’s difficult with these types of appointment because the majority will be applicable but just to bear in mind that there are exceptions that don’t fit in the standard box.
Asexuality, often abbreviated as "ace," is a sexual orientation where a person experiences little to no sexual attraction towards others. It’s important to note that being asexual doesn’t mean a person cannot experience romantic attraction or desire emotional intimacy; for many, these are separate aspects of their identity. Some asexual individuals may still form deep romantic relationships, while others may identify as aromantic, meaning they do not experience romantic attraction either.
In 2024, being asexual in the UK carries unique challenges and opportunities. Awareness of asexuality has grown, thanks in part to online communities and increasing representation in the media. However, many asexual people still face a lack of understanding and validation, with society often assuming that sexual attraction is a universal human experience. This can lead to pressure, discomfort, or feelings of being "broken" in a culture that highly values sexual relationships.
For someone who is asexual in the UK today, a sense of belonging within the wider LGBTQ+ community can provide much-needed support. Visibility and acceptance are crucial, as they help dismantle stereotypes and encourage others to understand that asexuality is a legitimate and valid orientation, deserving of respect and recognition.