Dear maxman,

Scientists are not yet sure exactly what causes someone to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, or straight, but recent research shows that there are biological factors in place before birth that influence people's sexual orientation.

Sexual orientation is about sexual attraction. It may change over the course of a lifetime. It can take years to understand our sexual orientation, and that is normal. Some people who are unsure of their sexual orientation call themselves "questioning."

While sexual orientation is not something we can choose, many people do make choices about how to label themselves. They may identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or straight. Other people prefer not to label themselves. Either way is fine. All sexual orientations are perfectly normal, whether we choose to label ourselves or not.

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.