Not sure if this is the right forum to discuss this, but here I go.

My partner of 5.5 years suspects he may be on the asexual spectrum and recently suggested opening by our relationship. He’s never been interested in sex or anything related to it (kissing, cuddling, even hugging) - and has said all along that it’s of little importance to him (and has felt the same in previous relationships). Still, we would occasionally have sex because he knew it was important to me. Despite his efforts, it was never really satisfactory in terms of frequency and also time spent especially because I could feel that he was never really that into it. Anyways we are now realizing that this has put a huge strain on the relationship all along and that it would be better for me to seek sex elsewhere. We both still care about each other and love each other but now I’m wondering what makes my relationship with him different than having a friend I travel with or do fun things with? We don’t live together and even sleep separately when we are together under one roof. The positive aspects are that we both are willing to explore this while also working to strengthen our bond. Im excited but also worry that the bond will disintegrate once I start to have sex with others. Has anyone experienced anything similar? Does any one here have a partner that isn’t sex based? What in your mind makes this person different than just a close friend? Thanks for the support - I am new to this community and am feeling a bit lost about where to start.