Sex is one of life's great pleasures, yet many people (especially beginners) find themselves wondering if they're "doing it right."
The truth? There's no single "right" way to have sex, but there are positions that can enhance pleasure, deepen intimacy, and help you discover what works best for your body.
According to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, sexual satisfaction is strongly correlated with sexual self-efficacy.
And exploring different positions is one of the most effective ways to build that confidence. Here are the 10 best sex positions you can try out on your next endeavour.
Before diving into specific positions, it's important to understand that the best sex positions vary from person to person. Dr. Emily Morse, sexologist and host of the Sex With Emily podcast, emphasizes that "the best position is the one where both partners feel comfortable, connected, and able to communicate."
Research from the Kinsey Institute indicates that couples who regularly experiment with new sexual activities report higher relationship satisfaction.
However, the goal isn't to master every position. Instead, it's about finding what brings pleasure to you and your partner(s).
Missionary often gets dismissed as "vanilla," but sex therapists agree it remains one of the best sex positions for women when modified properly.
The face-to-face contact facilitates emotional connection, while simple adjustments can dramatically increase pleasure.
This modified missionary position is specifically designed to maximize clitoral stimulation during penetration.
Instead of the traditional in-and-out motion, the partner on top shifts their body upward so the base of the penis or toy maintains consistent contact with the clitoris.
Dr. Edward Eichel, who pioneered research on this technique, found that it significantly increased the likelihood of orgasm during intercourse for women who typically struggle to climax from penetration alone.
Placing a pillow under the receiving partner's hips changes the angle of penetration, potentially allowing for deeper stimulation and easier access to the G-spot. This simple modification transforms standard missionary into one of the best sex positions for blended orgasms.
For many women, clitoral stimulation is essential for orgasm. These positions prioritize that contact while maintaining the intimacy of partnered sex.
When the receiving partner is on top, they control the angle, depth, and rhythm—making this one of the best sex positions for her pleasure. The cowgirl position allows for grinding against the partner's pelvis, providing consistent clitoral contact.
A 2019 study found that women who regularly used woman-on-top positions reported higher rates of orgasm during intercourse compared to those who exclusively used missionary.
Combining elements of CAT with cowgirl positioning, this variation involves the partner on top leaning forward slightly to maintain clitoral contact against their partner's body while controlling the movement.
Oral sex is a cornerstone of sexual pleasure for many people, and certain positions can make it more comfortable and enjoyable for both partners.
The receiving partner lies on their back with legs spread, while the giving partner positions themselves between their legs. This classic setup remains one of the best oral sex positions because it allows the giver full access while the receiver can relax completely.
Sex educator and author Tristan Taormino recommends adding pillows under the hips to reduce neck strain for the giving partner and improve access to sensitive areas.
While traditional 69 gets a lot of attention, the side-by-side variation is often more comfortable and sustainable. Both partners lie on their sides facing each other, allowing for mutual oral pleasure without the strain of supporting body weight.
This position is particularly beneficial for longer sessions and for partners with different body sizes.
Some people find that deeper penetration creates more intense sensations and can stimulate the anterior fornix (A-spot), an area associated with powerful orgasms.
Doggy style is consistently rated among the best sex positions for deep penetration and G-spot stimulation. The angle naturally targets the front wall of the vagina, where the G-spot is located.
Variations include:
Dr. Justin Lehmiller, research fellow at the Kinsey Institute, notes that doggy style also allows for additional stimulation—either partner can reach around to provide clitoral or testicular stimulation.
Anal play requires patience, communication, and the right positioning for comfort and pleasure.
For beginners, spooning is widely recommended as the best position for anal sex. The receiving partner lies on their side with the giving partner positioned behind them. This position allows the receiving partner to control the depth and angle by adjusting their body position, and the close body contact creates a sense of security.
Key benefits include:
Sex therapist Dr. Ian Kerner emphasizes that successful anal sex requires extensive warm-up, generous lubrication, and constant communication—regardless of position.
While not the most comfortable environment, car sex can add excitement and spontaneity. Certain positions work better within vehicle constraints.
The penetrating partner sits in the backseat while the receiving partner straddles them. This utilizes the limited vertical space while allowing both partners to remain relatively comfortable.
The receiving partner reclines the passenger seat and positions themselves across it, while the penetrating partner kneels on the floor or stands outside the open door (in a private location).
Safety note: Always ensure the vehicle is parked in a private, legal location with the parking brake engaged.
Sex isn't just about physical pleasure—it's also about connection. These positions prioritize eye contact, skin-to-skin contact, and emotional bonding.
The penetrating partner sits cross-legged while the receiving partner sits on their lap, wrapping their legs around their partner's waist. This face-to-face position allows for kissing, eye contact, and synchronized breathing.
Tantra practitioners often recommend this position for "soul-gazing"—maintaining eye contact during intimacy to deepen emotional connection.
Both partners lie on their sides facing each other, with legs intertwined like a pretzel. This position allows for deep penetration while maintaining full-body contact and the ability to kiss and whisper to each other.
Regardless of which positions you try, sex therapists recommend these universal strategies:
Communicate continuously. Check in with your partner about what's working and what isn't. A simple "does this feel good?" or "harder/softer?" can transform an awkward experience into an amazing one.
Use props liberally. Pillows, wedges, and furniture can make positions more comfortable and pleasurable. Don't hesitate to modify standard positions to suit your bodies and needs.
Focus on sensation, not performance. The goal isn't to look like porn stars—it's to feel good. If a position isn't working, laugh about it and try something else.
Remember that the best sex position is the one you both enjoy. Rankings and recommendations are starting points, not rules. Your preferences are valid, regardless of what experts or popular culture suggest.
Exploring the best sex positions isn't about checking boxes or following trends; it's about discovering what brings you and your partner pleasure, connection, and joy.
Start with one or two positions that appeal to you, communicate openly with your partner, and approach the experience with curiosity rather than pressure. The best sex happens when you're present, connected, and focused on mutual pleasure.
Here's to your best sex ever in {Current_Year}!
