Facebook users can now create their own gender for their online profile.
“Now, if you do not identify with the pre-populated list of gender identities, you are able to add your own,” Facebook saidin a statement.
Users can also decide whom to share their gender choices with.
According to aGallup poll, about 3.4 percent of Americans identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. Beyond that general information, the number of Americans with varying gender identities is difficult to determine.
“We recognize that some people face challenges sharing their true gender identity with others, and this setting gives people the ability to express themselves in an authentic way,” Facebook said.
In 2014, Facebook expanded to 58 gender options and allowed users to change the pronoun (him, her, they) to be referred by.
Gavin Stern is a national digital producer for the Scripps National Desk.