Understanding Omnisexual Attraction

Lindsay Curtis
·8 min read
184

Medically reviewed by Lauren Schlanger, MD

Omnisexuality is a sexual orientation in which a person is attracted to people of all genders, including men, women, nonbinary people, and other gender identities. Omnisexuality falls under the LGBTQ+ umbrella—an acronym that describes a worldwide community of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other non-heteronormative identities.

As society evolves its understanding of diverse sexual identities and gender expressions, the LGBTQ+ spectrum continues to expand, welcoming a rich tapestry of sexual orientations and identities. Omnisexuality is a term you may have encountered but might not fully understand.

This article explains the meaning of omnisexual attraction and the differences between pansexuality and omnisexuality. It also provides tips on discussing omnisexuality and where to find support. It sheds light on the meaning behind the colors of the omnisexual flag.

<p>Sara Monika / Getty Images</p>

Sara Monika / Getty Images

Defining Omnisexual Attraction

Omnisexual attraction is romantic, emotional, or sexual attraction to people of all genders, regardless of gender identity or biological sex. A person who identifies as omnisexual can experience attraction to individuals of any gender identity, whether they are male, female, nonbinary, genderqueer, gender fluid, or any other diverse gender expression.

This doesn't mean that omnisexual people are attracted to everyone. Omnisexual people still have preferences for different characteristics, such as personality or physical appearance. For example, someone who is omnisexual can be attracted to people of all genders but may have a preference or feel more comfortable dating people of a particular gender or gender expression.



Dispelling Myths About Omnisexuality

Omnisexuality has its fair share of myths and misconceptions, which can lead to misunderstanding and discrimination. Here are a few common misconceptions:

  • Omnisexual people are promiscuous: This is a harmful stereotype without supporting evidence. Omnisexual people are just as diverse as any other population group and have the same capacity for commitment and monogamous relationships as people of any sexual orientation.

  • Omnisexual people are confused: Omnisexual people know who they are and who they're attracted to and are not confused about their sexuality.

  • Omnisexuality is a new trend: In reality, omnisexuality has always existed but has only recently become more visible and accepted. This may be partly due to the rise of the Internet and social media, outlets that give omnisexual people a platform to share their stories and experiences.

  • Omnisexual people are attracted to everyone: Contrary to this myth, omnisexual individuals are attracted to people of all genders, but they still have individual preferences and standards when forming romantic or sexual connections.



Being Omnisexual Is Different Than Pansexual

Omnisexuality and pansexuality are sexual orientations in which a person is attracted to people of all genders. While both orientations share some similarities in their broad acceptance of diverse gender identities, they differ in how they approach and define attraction. One key concept that sets them apart is the idea of gender blindness (not seeing gender as a relevant factor in people's attraction to others).

Omnisexuality is the attraction to people of all genders, with an awareness of gender. Omnisexual people acknowledge gender in their attractions. They do not discriminate based on gender but may experience variations in their attractions based on gender identity.

For example, an omnisexual person may be more likely to date people of a specific gender or have different emotional and physical attraction needs for different genders.

Pansexuality, on the other hand, is the attraction to people regardless of gender. Pansexual people may describe themselves as being gender blind.

Omnisexuality is often described as gender-inclusive, whereas pansexuality is often described as gender-blind. Here is an example of how omnisexuality and pansexuality differ:

  • An omnisexual person might say, "I'm attracted to people of all genders, but I tend to date women more often."

  • A pansexual person might say, "I'm attracted to people regardless of gender. I don't see gender as a factor in my attraction to others."

Nuances Between Omnisexual and Bisexual

There are also important distinctions between omnisexuality and bisexuality. While both orientations involve attraction to multiple genders, they are not synonymous. Omnisexuality emphasizes attraction to people of all genders. Bisexuality means attraction to two genders, but not necessarily every possible gender identity.

Bisexuality is a sexual orientation in which a person is romantically, emotionally, or sexually attracted to more than one gender or biological sex. Bisexuality is sometimes assumed to mean attraction to men and women, but it is not limited to the traditional gender binary (male/female). Bisexuality isn't specifically binary—it simply means attraction to more than one gender.

People of any gender identity can be bisexual, and bisexuality encompasses attraction to any gender.

How to Talk About Omnisexuality in Relationships

Discussing omnisexuality in relationships can be a meaningful way to foster understanding, build trust, and give and receive support. These conversations can be challenging due to the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding omnisexuality. Some people you talk to may be unfamiliar with the term or have inaccurate beliefs about what it means to be omnisexual.

Navigating conversations about omnisexuality may require patience and understanding but can also lead to stronger, more supportive relationships. By initiating these discussions with care and empathy, you can help break down barriers and foster acceptance among your family, friends, and partners.

Here are some tips for talking about omnisexuality in relationships:

  • Start by educating yourself: The more you know about omnisexuality, the better equipped you'll be to talk about it with others. Many resources are available online and in libraries to help you learn more.

  • Choose the right time and place: When you are ready to discuss omnisexuality, choosing the right time and place is important. You want to be in a situation in which you and the person you speak with feel comfortable and safe.

  • Emphasize personal experience: Sharing your experiences can humanize omnisexuality and make it more relatable. Explain what it means to you and how it has influenced your relationships.

  • Set boundaries: Communicate your boundaries and expectations regarding respect and acceptance. For example, you can express that you welcome their questions but expect kindness and respect.

  • Encourage questions: Your partner, family, and friends will likely have questions about omnisexuality. Be prepared to answer these questions honestly and openly.

  • Be patient and understanding: People may need time to process the information you share. Be patient and allow your loved ones to ask questions and express their feelings.

  • Seek support: Consider seeking support from LGBTQ+ support groups or organizations specializing in guiding coming out and relationship discussions.

If you are omnisexual, remember you don't have to come out to anyone unless you want to. If you are uncomfortable discussing your omnisexuality with others or certain people in particular, that is perfectly okay. You are not obligated to explain your sexual orientation to anyone.

Omnisexual Flag Colors and Representation

The omnisexual flag symbolizes pride and visibility for omnisexual people. It also serves as a reminder that omnisexuality is a valid and legitimate sexual orientation. Created in 2015 by Tumblr user @pastelmemer, the omnisexual flag is relatively new but has quickly become a popular symbol flown at LGBTQ+ events to show support for omnisexual people.

The omnisexual flag has five horizontal stripes of equal width, with the following colors and meanings:

  • Light pink and light blue: Represent the gender spectrum

  • Dark pink: Represents attraction to women and femininity

  • Dark blue: Represents attraction to men and masculinity

  • Purple: Represents attraction to people of all other genders, including nonbinary people, genderfluid people, and people of different gender identities



Omnisexuality & Individual Variability

Omnisexuality is a spectrum, and there is no one way to be omnisexual. Every omnisexual person's experiences and preferences are unique. People of all gender identities and gender expressions can be omnisexual. Some may identify as female (she/her), male (he/him), nonbinary, or genderqueer (they/them). As with anyone, it is always best to ask an omnisexual person their preferred pronouns.



Omnisexual Support and Outreach

Whether you or someone you care about is omnisexual, finding understanding and support can be a helpful—and sometimes lifesaving—step toward fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance. Like many others within the LGBTQ+ community, omnisexual people face unique challenges and experiences that make access to support networks vital.

Finding the right support network may take time, and you may need to explore several options until you find the resources and communities that resonate with you. Resources for omnisexual people include:

Summary

Omnisexuality is a sexual orientation in which a person is attracted to people of all genders, including men, women, nonbinary people, and other gender identities. While omnisexual people may be open to sexual, emotional, and romantic connections to people of all genders, they still have preferences regarding personalities, appearances, and gender expressions they are attracted to.

Every omnisexual person's experiences and preferences are unique, and there is no one right way to be omnisexual. If you are omnisexual or questioning your sexuality, having a solid support system can help you navigate your experiences. There are many online and in-person support groups and LGBTQ+ organizations where you can find support, resources, and connections with others with similar experiences.

Read the original article on Verywell Health.