A Guide to 15 of the Most Pleasurable Sex Positions, Backed by Science and Surveys.
The truth is, there's no single 'best' position. Pleasure is deeply personal, depending on anatomy, mood, and desire. This guide explores a range of options, highlighting what makes each one special, from intimate connection to intense stimulation.
For most women, pleasure is closely linked to clitoral stimulation. A 2017 study found over 70% of women said it was either necessary for orgasm or significantly improved it. Positions that allow for this contact are often rated higher.
A simple tweak transforms a classic. Placing a pillow under the receiver's hips changes the angle of intercourse. A 2022 ultrasound study found this simple trick was most effective at increasing clitoral blood flow.
Known as CAT, this is a missionary variation designed for clitoral contact. The penetrative partner slides up the body, allowing their pubic bone to grind against the clitoris during thrusting. A 1995 study confirmed it improves orgasm consistency.
A fan favorite for a big reason: it gives the receiving partner full control over the depth, angle, and rhythm. A large-scale Czech study directly linked more frequent use of this position to more frequent female orgasms.
By simply turning around, you create a whole new world of sensation and a thrilling visual dynamic. This variation can stimulate different areas for both partners and offers a great angle for G-spot pressure.
Intimate and powerful. One partner sits in a chair while the other straddles them, facing them. This upright position allows for deep eye contact, kissing, and a unique grinding motion that can be incredibly arousing.
In multiple surveys across the US and UK, this position consistently ranks as a top favorite for both men and women. The primary appeal? The potential for deep penetration and a primal feeling.
While popular, research shows it may be less effective for direct clitoral stimulation. A 2022 study noted it produced a 'negligible increase in clitoral blood flow.' The solution? Add manual stimulation to make it a showstopper.
Perfect for lazy mornings and long, sensual nights. Lying side-by-side is low-energy and high-intimacy. It allows for full-body contact and kissing, while the angle can be surprisingly effective for G-spot stimulation.
Partners lie on their sides facing each other with their legs intertwined. This intimate posture allows for easy clitoral access for fingers or toys, all while being able to kiss and look into each other's eyes.
Adventurous and athletic. One partner stands while the other holds their legs. This position requires strength and balance, offering exceptionally deep penetration and a feeling of exhilarating novelty.
The pinnacle of tantric intimacy. Partners sit facing each other, legs wrapped around one another. The movement is slow and grinding, focused on deep connection and shared sensation rather than rapid thrusting.
This position is designed specifically to target the G-spot. The receiver lies on their side while their partner kneels and enters from behind, lifting their top leg to create the perfect angle for direct internal pressure.
The receiver lies on the edge of a bed or table, legs held up and open by the standing partner. This position allows for deep, uninhibited thrusting while also providing fantastic clitoral access for hands or a vibrator.
A simple but intense missionary variation. The receiving partner keeps their legs held tightly together. This increases friction and creates a snug sensation for both partners, heightening pleasure all around.
This classic focuses on simultaneous oral pleasure. While not a penetrative act, its focus on mutual giving and receiving is a powerful form of intimacy and a favorite way for many to explore shared ecstasy.
The receiver lies on their back with hips at the very edge of the bed, draping their legs over their partner’s shoulders. This allows for incredibly deep penetration, face-to-face intimacy, and a powerful sense of connection.
Don't treat this list like a sexual checklist. Think of it as a map of possibilities. The best experiences come from exploring what feels right for you and your partner in the moment. Be curious and playful.
No position can replace the power of open communication. Talk about what feels good. Give feedback. Ask what your partner likes. The conversation is the most essential ingredient for building a truly pleasurable sex life.
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