I think ripedwithdecay made alot of great points! I don't have experience with having a girlfriend :lol: , but I have had a few boyfriends, and can still relate to what has been said.
The bad: Like mentioned, some partners get a little frustrated with your SA. I never openly told any of them that I have SA (mainly because I am uncertain about it or don't want to be labeled.) But, it's hard meeting their friends and family. Sometimes I come across as looking snobby or bored because of my shyness - when that's not the case. I had one BF even dump me shortly after meeting his friends and family at a bonfire. His mom made some comments about it. And then some get frustrated, I think, because they know their partner is an amazing person when they are alone with them, but their friends and family might not see it at first, second, third meet.
If you have low self-esteem, it can be a constant stuggle. It can be hard to believe that the person loves you - if you don't love yourself. Even if they assure you, you just don't feel it or wonder if they are being truthful. And it can really turn you into an ugly person- as far as your attitude goes. I get jealous easily, too. If my BF says another girl is cute or even talks about a girl at work, I get crushed. Like ripe said, you really should try and improve yourself (love yourself) before you can allow someone to love you.
The good: You get to experience things you would not - if alone. You actually feel like you have some life in you. I didn't have my first before until 21 and before that I was friendless. So, I really got to experience life with his help.
If it's a good person, then you really have someone you can always call or turn to when a problem arises. Even if they can't solve it, they are there to listen and support you.