Dear raquel3668,

People who are attracted to both women and men sometimes call themselves bisexual. But that does not necessarily mean that someone who is bisexual must be involved with both a woman and a man in order to be satisfied. Many bisexual people have sex play with just one person, and many become involved in long-term, monogamous relationships with just one person. Others may prefer to have multiple partners or partners of both sexes. Just like with heterosexual people, everyone is different. That's why it's important for partners to communicate about their expectations in a relationship.

Sexual orientation — being lesbian, bisexual, gay, or straight — is about sexual attraction. It can take years to understand our sexual orientation. Each of us has to answer these questions for ourselves, but it may take time before we can answer. No one knows for sure what makes men and women lesbian or gay, bisexual or heterosexual. Sexual orientation develops naturally — perhaps even before birth. Although sexual orientation may seem to shift for some people in the course of a lifetime, it is not something that people can decide for themselves or others.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.