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Story of Kazi Bushra
Case Study Documentation: Ayan
Soulmates Without Rules
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.
ANOAQA: The world's first initiative dedicated to publishing Asexual and Aromantic literature, challenging the hypersexual lens of socio-cultural norms.

Case Study Documentation: Ayan

Trigger Warning: Case Involves Multiple Suicide Attempts and Ongoing Suicidal Risk
May 28, 2023
byAnoaqa
3

Summary

Ayan (pseudonym), contacted our helpline in 2023 following multiple episodes of severe psychological distress, including three prior suicide attempts.

He reported a long-standing experience of low or absent sexual attraction toward others, alongside a notably high libido. Prior to understanding asexuality, he experienced confusion about his sexual identity and often described himself as “picky” in dating contexts, despite this, he consistently reported a strong physiological sexual drive without corresponding desire for partnered sexual activity unless sexual attraction was present.

Seeking medical explanation, Ayan consulted a sexologist. However, his concerns were not understood within a sexual diversity framework. He was subsequently prescribed medication intended to increase testosterone levels, which led to a significant escalation in his libido and sexual arousal.

Following this intervention, Ayan reported experiencing intense and persistent arousal, to the extent that he engaged in masturbation approximately 3–5 times per day. This increase in compulsive sexual behavior severely disrupted his ability to concentrate on academic work and daily functioning. Over time, his academic performance declined significantly, ultimately resulting in university dropout.

Ayan described feeling overwhelmed and distressed by the loss of control over his body and daily life. Without access to appropriate psychoeducation or support regarding asexuality and sexual health, his psychological distress intensified. He reported escalating hopelessness and attempted suicide three times prior to contacting our service.

Our assessment classified this as a high-risk case, involving significant psychological distress and potential medical mismanagement, within the context of a cisgender male presenting with unrecognized asexuality and adverse outcomes following hormonal intervention.

Background Information 

Name: Ayan (Pseudonym)
Age: 26 years
Education: Dropped out in 3rd year of university (2021)
Residence: Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Year of contact: 2023 (via helpline)
Primary Concern: Conversion-Oriented Clinical Intervention and Medical Harm Affecting an Asexual Individual
Trigger Warning: High Risk (Suicidal Crisis)

ANOAQA Interviewer: Could you start by telling us a little about yourself?

I am a 26-year-old man living in Mirpur, Dhaka. Prior to 2021, I was enrolled at a private university and was considered one of the stronger academic performers in my department. However, due to what I initially perceived as a sudden and unexplained psychological difficulty, my academic performance began to deteriorate significantly. I repeatedly failed courses across multiple semesters and was ultimately forced to discontinue my studies during my third year of university in 2021.

ANOAQA Interviewer: What led you to seek professional support?

For most of my life, I experienced a persistent discrepancy between sexual desire and sexual attraction. I had a relatively high libido, regularly watched pornography, and occasionally engaged in coffee dating. Women often expressed romantic or sexual interest in me; however, I rarely, if ever, experienced sexual attraction toward them. 

This discrepancy was deeply confusing. I started to feel that I was extremely picky. (By “picky,” he is referring to someone who is highly selective about whom they find sexually attractive, often rejecting intimacy, sexual encounters, or even feeling sexual attraction toward most people.) Although I enjoyed spending time with people and often desired deep friendship, regular conversations and emotional connection, I seldom found anyone sexually appealing. I frequently questioned why I did not experience attraction in the same way as my peers.

I was particularly puzzled when male friends described certain women as highly attractive or “hot,” while I felt little or no sexual attraction toward those same individuals, even when they expressed interest in me. When I discussed these experiences with friends, they often responded with ridicule or disbelief. Eventually, one friend suggested that I consult a sexologist.

As I increasingly internalized the perception that something was “wrong” with me, and because dating partners frequently described me as excessively selective or difficult to please, I began experiencing feelings of shame, self-doubt, and confusion. Seeking answers, I consulted a sexologist to better understand my experiences.

ANOAQA Interviewer: How did the healthcare professional respond?

The physician initially instructed me to completely stop viewing pornography, suggesting that it might be contributing to my difficulties. I complied with this recommendation; however, my experiences remained unchanged.

From my perspective, the clinician appeared unable to distinguish between libido (sexual drive) and sexual attraction. Rather than exploring my experiences in greater depth or considering the possibility of asexuality, the physician reassured me that my condition was medically treatable.

Subsequently, I was prescribed medication intended to increase testosterone levels. Rather than alleviating my concerns, the intervention significantly intensified my libido.

ANOAQA Interviewer: What impact did the treatment have on your daily functioning and educational life?

The consequences were severe.

Following the initiation of treatment, I began experiencing intense and persistent sexual arousal that felt overwhelming and difficult to control. I gradually came to perceive these feelings as highly distressing and disruptive rather than pleasurable. The constant arousal interfered with my ability to focus on academic responsibilities, daily activities, and routine functioning.

In an effort to manage the physical discomfort, I found myself masturbating between three and five times per day. At times, it felt as though I was unable to concentrate on anything else. My attention span deteriorated substantially, and my academic performance declined rapidly.

As my grades worsened semester after semester, I lost confidence in my ability to continue my education. Ultimately, I withdrew from university altogether.

ANOAQA Interviewer: How did these experiences affect your mental health?

Over time, the situation became unbearable.

I felt as though my entire life was collapsing. The treatment that was intended to help me had not addressed my concerns and instead appeared to exacerbate them. I became increasingly isolated, hopeless, and emotionally distressed.

The combination of academic failure, chronic frustration, confusion regarding my identity, and the worsening effects of treatment contributed to severe psychological distress. Prior to contacting ANOAQA’s community helpline, I had attempted suicide on three separate occasions.

ANOAQA Interviewer: How did you learn about ANOAQA Helpline?

A few months ago (In early 2023), during a period of acute psychological crisis, I came across an interview featuring ANOAQA’s Director on BBC Bangla. Through that interview, I learned about the existence of the Bangladeshi Asexual Association.

I subsequently visited the organization’s YouTube channel and watched numerous Zoom-based interviews featuring asexual individuals from Bangladesh discussing their experiences. For the first time, I encountered narratives that resonated with my own experiences.

After reaching out to members of the Bangladeshi Asexual Association, I was advised to contact ANOAQA’s community helpline for additional support.

ANOAQA Interviewer: What did you feel after learning the name of your identity and connecting with the community? 

During discussions with members of the Bangladeshi Asexual Association, I explained that while I experienced sexual desire, I rarely experienced sexual attraction toward other people. They introduced me to educational resources about asexuality and invited me to complete a structured questionnaire exploring various dimensions of attraction, desire, relationships, and personal experiences.

Through this process, I was able to identify and contextualize my experiences for the first time. The discussions helped me understand that my pattern of experiencing high libido alongside limited or absent sexual attraction was consistent with experiences reported by many people within the asexual spectrum.

Most importantly, I learned that my experiences did not constitute a disorder requiring medical correction. Rather, they reflected a valid sexual orientation that had previously gone unrecognized by both myself and the healthcare professionals I had consulted.

This realization significantly reduced my confusion and self-stigma and provided a framework through which I could better understand my identity and experiences.

ANOAQA Assessment

ANOAQA classified this case as a high-risk human rights concern involving medical abuse, conversion-oriented treatment practices, educational disruption, and multiple suicide attempts. The case demonstrates the severe consequences that can arise when healthcare professionals attempt to alter or “correct” an individual’s sexual orientation rather than provide affirming and evidence-based care.

What human rights concerns does this case raise?

This case demonstrates how a lack of awareness about asexuality within healthcare systems can lead to harmful medical interventions that function as a form of conversion practice. The healthcare provider treated the absence of sexual attraction as a condition requiring correction rather than recognizing it as a valid sexual orientation. As a result, the individual experienced significant psychological harm, educational disruption, loss of livelihood opportunities, and severe suicidal distress.

This case study underscores the necessity of rethinking : Recognition of asexuality within healthcare systems.

Training for medical and mental health professionals on diversity of orientation, and asexual spectrums.

Protection from conversion practices targeting asexual individuals.

Accessible mental health support for asexual people experiencing discrimination and medical abuse.

May 28, 2023
byAnoaqa

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