Sex is important . Romantic, typically sexual, partnerships are often among the most central relationships in individuals' lives, providing a host of personal, health, social and economic benefits.

But what about people who don't have sex?

In a new study , my colleagues and I looked at the differences between mature adults who had never had sex and those who had.

We found sexlessness is associated with a range of genetic, environmental, physical and mental factors – but much still remains unclear.

Life without sex

Some people – often described as "asexual" – simply don't desire sex.

However, those who do but are unable to find suitable and willing partners may be vulnerable to poor mental health and loneliness, social embarrassment, and economic disadvantages (for example due to

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