Sex-repulsed - What is it? What does it mean?

Julia Sotska

Updated on December 19, 2022 | 3 min read

Sex-repulsed flag

Sex-repulsed typically refers to people on the asexual spectrum who experience some form of sex repulsion. Some ace-spec or a-spec individuals may be repulsed by the idea of sexual activity or any sexual situation.

The term indicates that a-spec person experiences sex repulsion meaning they find sexual activity disgusting or repulsive. Some people are repulsed by the thought of engaging in sex altogether, while others may be disgusted by some sexual activity but not all. For some, it may be general uncomfortable negative feelings associated with sexual behavior while for others sex repulsion is about some sexual acts but not all.

Terminology & History

Sex-repulsed people may also identify as apothisexual or ARCsexual. The word apothisexual has the Greek root apothi which means repulsed.

It is important to note that not all a-spec people are sex-repulsed. There are many asexuals that have sex or similar activities on a regular basis. Some people may be averse or indifferent to sex. There are also some allosexual people who may be sex-repulsed for a variety of reasons.

It may be associated with anxiety, fear, disgust, physical reactions like pain or nausea. People who are sex-repulsed are not necessarily sex-negative. Despite experiencing negative feelings associated with the idea of sex, repulsion is not the same as sex negativity.

Pronouns

Sex-repulsed people are generally on the ace spectrum. They can be agender, cisgender, transgender, and non-binary. Sex-repulsed folks may use a variety of pronouns ranging from gender-specific ones like he/him or she/her to gender-neutral ones like they/them as well as neopronouns of their own choice.

Never assume someone’s gender based on their orientation or expression. Always share your pronouns in written and oral communication. If you are unsure of the person’s pronouns - politely ask them. Some people may prefer to use their name.

Flag and Symbols

There are quite a few versions of the sex-repulsed flag currently available online. They tend to have the same color scheme and similar symbols. The most commonly used flag features purple, grey, and white colors.

Sex-repulsed flag

How to Know if You are Sex-Repulsed?

If you are on the a-spectrum, believe the idea of sex is repulsive, have thoughts of aversion and disgust towards sexual activities, and generally are not interested in sex - you be experiencing sex repulsion.

Your sexuality is valid no matter what anyone says. If you are repulsed by the idea of sex and believe the term fits you well at the present moment then go ahead and claim it. You are the only person to determine what word and term you best.

How to Support Sex-Repulsed People?

Supporting sex-repulsed people, in particular, is all about being a good ally. It is about understanding your privileges and showing your support 365 days a year.