Do Asexual People Masturbate? Understanding the Concept of Asexuality.

Asexuality is not a new phenomenon. It has existed for ages. But it’s a relatively new term that started to appear and be discussed in media. Unfortunately, there are myths and assumptions around the spectrum of asexuality, so it’s hard to find the true answer to questions like: Do asexual individuals masturbate? Do they have a sex drive?

Let’s find out what it means to be asexual and whether it has something to do with masturbation, romantic relationships, and sexual pleasure.

What Does It Mean to Be Asexual?

Asexuality is a sexual orientation, just like being straight, gay, lesbian or bisexual. Asexual people experience little to no sexual attraction to others, with the emphasis on “little”. In specific circumstances, there is a small chance that an asexual person may choose to engage in sexual relationships.

Asexuality is different from celibacy or abstinence. These are entirely different concepts.

Do Asexual People Enjoy Masturbation?

Typically, asexual people do not experience sexual attraction to others. However, they still have a libido and a biological sex drive. So yes, some asexual individuals do masturbate.

In 2016, researchers at the University of British Columbia surveyed 351 asexual individuals to determine whether they masturbate or experience sexual fantasies, comparing the results with those of sexual groups. The findings revealed notable differences between genders:

• Nearly 75% of asexual male and 50% of asexual female respondents reported both experiencing sexual fantasies and masturbating. This occurred despite the fact they identify as asexual and lack of sexual attraction to others.
• Also, findings suggest that masturbation patterns vary significantly between sexual men and women and their asexual counterparts.

Many asexual people choose masturbation because they feel biologically compelled to do so. Human bodies are built this way. Regardless of gender or sexual orientation, moments of hormonal spikes may urge individuals to find a way to achieve orgasm.

Sexual Fantasies

It may seem surprising that people who do not feel sexual attraction still have sexual fantasies. However, fantasies are not necessarily linked to sexual desire. Asexual individuals often have fantasies, but they do not wish to act on them in real life.

Interestingly, according to a survey conducted by researchers at the University of British Columbia, most asexual individuals have fantasies involving someone else or even imaginary characters, rather than themselves. For instance, they might imagine two movie characters engaging in intercourse without involving themselves in the scenario.

Asexual people may use fantasies to achieve arousal, experience physical pleasure, and release tension. These fantasies help them reach orgasm, which can reduce stress levels. However, they are not driven by a desire for sexual intimacy with another person.

Romantic Attraction

Asexual individuals can still experience romantic attraction. They may fall in love romantically and develop deep, intimate connections without experiencing sexual attraction. For instance, an asexual person may enjoy spending time with their romantic partner, such as having candlelit dinners or holding hands during a romantic movie, but they may not be interested in engaging in sexual activity.

If a couple consists of two asexual partners, they may develop a lasting romantic relationship that could lead to marriage. Although this topic is not widely discussed in public, there are many couples whose relationships are not driven by sexual desire. Such couples may have little to no sexual activity and still lead fulfilling, happy lives.

Some asexual couples even choose to have children. Since asexuality exists on a spectrum, some individuals may feel occasional sexual attraction or enjoy sex infrequently, enabling them to conceive naturally. These relationships, in which partners are romantically attracted, often last longer than relationships primarily based on sexual attraction.

Other Types of Attraction

Romantic and sexual attractions are not the only ways people can be attracted to each other. People who identify as asexual and do not experience sexual attraction may still feel other types of attraction, including the following.

Aesthetic Attraction

This refers to an appreciation of someone’s appearance, such as their facial features, clothing style, or the way they wear makeup, without any romantic or sexual context. For example, you might admire someone’s beauty or sense of style, yet have no desire to pursue a romantic relationship or sexual connection with them.

Platonic Attraction

This is the desire to form a deep emotional connection—friendship—with a specific individual. It is characterized by a longing for companionship and closeness on a non-romantic and non-sexual level.

Emotional Attraction

This involves a profound feeling of connection with someone whose personality you find appealing. For instance, you may be drawn to someone’s sense of humor or admire their values and beliefs. This type of attraction often creates a strong desire to understand and connect with that person on a deeper level, but it does not necessarily include the intention to form a friendship.

Myths About Asexuality

Sexuality is a complex topic, and scientists continue to grapple with explaining asexuality to a broad audience. As a result, many myths and misconceptions persist about what asexuality truly means, how it differs from other sexual orientations, and how it impacts the lives of individuals. Here are some essential points everyone should understand:

• Low libido is not a sign of asexuality. Libido does not define your sexual orientation and has nothing to do with your gender identity.
• You can still identify as asexual even if you occasionally experience some sexual desires. If, for the majority of the time, you do not experience sexual attraction to others, you may fall within the asexual spectrum.
• Asexuality does not deny the fact that your body can experience arousal. The only difference, is that when you get aroused, it’s not because you see or think about a specific person.
• Asexuality does not deny the possibility of having sex with a romantic partner if it is important to them. Even if you do not desire sex or experience sexual pleasure, you may choose to have sex as a way to express love and make your partner happy.
• Sexuality can change over time. For example, if you were a sexually active person but now you describe yourself as a person who has no interest in sex, it may mean that your sexuality has shifted, and you now identify as asexual.

If you are questioning your identity and want to learn more about asexuality, consider joining an asexual community. You can find related accounts and groups on social media platforms. By connecting with other asexual people, you can better understand and explore your identity. The Ace community is incredibly supportive, so don’t hesitate to join, ask questions, and discuss any sex- and sexuality-related topics without judgment.

Also, if you happen to meet people who question your sexuality, remind yourself that you don’t have to explain anything to them. Your gender and sexuality are personal, and it’s not something you need to discuss with others unless you want to. The lack of sexual attraction doesn’t change anything about your personality, and you don’t have to prove anything to ignorant people.

Wrapping Up

For decades, media and pop culture have portrayed sex and sexuality as essential elements of human existence—something people simply can’t live without. However, the desire for sex is not universal. Asexual individuals, regardless of gender—male, female, nonbinary, or transgender—can live fulfilling, happy lives without being sexually active.

While asexual individuals may not experience sexual attraction to others, many still engage in sexual fantasies and masturbation, as these activities are often driven by biological impulses rather than attraction.