What is Omnisexual

Understanding Omnisexuality - Identity, Myths, and Relationships

In the beautiful spectrum of human sexuality, the term omnisexual may not be as widely recognized as "gay," "bisexual," or "pansexual" — but it's just as valid, meaningful, and important.

Omnisexuality is a sexual orientation where a person feels attraction toward individuals of all genders—men, women, nonbinary people, genderfluid individuals, and more. What makes omnisexuality unique is that people who identify this way are often aware of their partner's gender and may experience different types of attraction based on that awareness.

💬 "I’ve always felt connected to people of all genders. It’s not that gender doesn’t matter — sometimes, it’s what draws me closer." — Jordan, 19, omnisexual and nonbinary

Omnisexuality falls under the umbrella of multisexuality, which refers to anyone who experiences attraction to more than one gender. This category also includes bisexual, pansexual, and polysexual individuals.

Omnisexual vs. Pansexual - What’s the Difference?

These two orientations are often confused or used interchangeably. While both describe attraction to people of multiple genders, they differ in how gender is perceived.

Understanding these distinctions can help individuals choose a label that best fits their lived experiences — but there’s no one right way to identify.

The Spectrum of Multisexuality

To visualize where omnisexuality fits, here is a simplified spectrum of multisexual identities:

                    (Attraction to multiple genders)
+----------------+-------------------+--------------------+----------------+
|   Bisexual     |   Omnisexual      |   Pansexual        |   Polysexual   |
| Two or more    | All genders with  | All genders         | Many genders,  |
| genders        | gender awareness  | gender blind        | not necessarily|
|                |                   |                     | all             |
+----------------+-------------------+--------------------+----------------+

(Note: This is a flexible, evolving spectrum. Not everyone fits neatly into one label.)

Facing Myths and Misconceptions

Omnisexual people, like others in the multisexual community, often face misunderstanding and lack of representation.

Common Myths:

• "Omnisexual people are just confused." Not true. Like all orientations, omnisexuality is valid.
• "They’re promiscuous or can’t settle down." Attraction to many genders doesn’t mean someone desires multiple partners.
• "It’s the same as bisexual or pansexual." While related, omnisexuality has its own distinct meaning.

Unfortunately, even guides meant to be inclusive sometimes lump omnisexuality in with more widely known identities. This can make it harder for omnisexual individuals to find community and language for their experiences.

Coming Out and Self-Discovery

Coming out as omnisexual can be empowering — and also confusing, especially for teens or those in environments unfamiliar with the term.

💬 "I told my parents I was omnisexual, and they asked if I meant bi. It took some explaining, but eventually they understood that it wasn't a phase or confusion. It was me."
— Alex, 16, high school student

For Teens:

• It's okay to try on labels before something fits.
• Seek out safe online or school communities that affirm all orientations.
• You don’t have to come out until you’re ready. Your identity is still valid.

For Parents & Educators:

• Stay open and listen. If a young person says they're omnisexual, respect it.
• Ask questions with love: "What does that mean to you?"
• Learn the terminology to support them more confidently.

Relationships and Communication

Your partner may not be familiar with the term omnisexual. Here are ways to foster understanding:

• Start with your personal definition: Share what omnisexuality means to you.
• Clarify boundaries: Being attracted to all genders doesn’t mean you’re attracted to everyone.
• Focus on respect: Mutual understanding leads to stronger connections.

💬 "I dated someone who thought omnisexual meant I couldn’t be monogamous. Once we talked about it, they realized it was just how I experience attraction, not how I date." — Chris, 27, omnisexual and married