Pleasure, Connection, and Communication: 11 Sex Positions That Maximize Satisfaction for Both Partners
Ideally, sex should be satisfying, fun, and intimacy-building for both partners. Achieving that kind of mutual pleasure doesn’t require magic — just a bit of open communication, willingness to explore, and an attitude of curiosity.
“Sex can be the perfect conduit for building intimacy in a couple because it taps into both the emotional and physical aspects of connection,” says Dr. Kat Van Kirk, relationship and sex expert. “Skin-to-skin contact promotes the release of the ‘bonding’ hormone oxytocin and helps strengthen trust — a key part of intimacy. Emotionally, sex invites vulnerability and the opportunity to explore each other in new ways.”
A great way to start exploring what feels good is by switching things up with new sex positions. Below, you’ll find 11 expert-backed positions designed to increase connection, intensify pleasure, and help both partners get more from the experience.
1. Doggy Style
How to do it: Get on all fours while your partner enters from behind. You can drop down to your forearms for comfort or arch your back to intensify penetration.
Why it works: This position allows for deep penetration and G-spot stimulation. It’s visually exciting for the partner in the rear and offers access to clitoral or nipple stimulation. “It’s perfect for voyeurs and exhibitionists alike,” says sexologist Dr. Jess O’Reilly.
2. Cowgirl
How to do it: Your partner lies on their back while you straddle and ride them, grinding your pelvis for clitoral stimulation.
Why it works: “Cowgirl allows the riding partner to control the depth, angle, and rhythm,” says O’Reilly. It empowers the person on top to guide their own pleasure, which can be a game-changer for clitoral orgasms — while their partner gets to relax and enjoy the view.
3. Doggy Style with a Vibrator
How to do it: Same as traditional doggy, but with the added bonus of a vibrator on the clitoris. You can hold it or use a wearable toy like a vibrating ring or internal vibe.
Why it works: This combo can lead to blended orgasms by stimulating both the G-spot and clitoris. “It’s the best of all worlds — penetration, vibration, grinding, and voyeurism,” says O’Reilly.
4. 69
How to do it: One partner lies on top of the other, facing opposite directions, to simultaneously give and receive oral sex. For more comfort, try lying on your sides.
Why it works: If you both enjoy oral sex, 69 offers mutual pleasure in real-time. It’s also a great exercise in rhythm, attention, and tuning into your partner’s responses.
5. Reverse Cowgirl
How to do it: Similar to cowgirl, but facing away from your partner as you straddle them.
Why it works: Like cowgirl, this position allows for clitoral stimulation through grinding. You also get a unique visual and physical experience. “The partner on the bottom enjoys deep, consistent thrusts while the partner on top gets full control,” says O’Reilly.
6. X Marks the Spot
How to do it: Lie on your back with your legs crossed in the air while your partner penetrates from a standing position.
Why it works: Crossing your legs creates a snug fit that intensifies sensation for both partners. It’s also ideal for shallower penetration, which can be especially pleasurable for the sensitive outer vaginal area.
7. Sideways Straddle
How to do it: Have your partner lie on their back with one leg bent. Straddle their leg, facing away, and lower yourself onto them.
Why it works: Great for clitoral stimulation and rear-entry penetration. “You can grind against their thigh or vulva, experiment with angles, and tease with eye contact,” says O’Reilly.
8. Sofa Brace
How to do it: Bend over the arm or back of a sofa while your partner kneels behind you for penetration.
Why it works: This variation on doggy style adds comfort and excitement by moving the action out of the bedroom. The sofa arm can also provide extra stimulation to the clitoris or external vulva area.
9. Modified Doggy Style
How to do it: Start in doggy style or lie flat on your stomach while your partner penetrates from behind.
Why it works: Offers deep, controlled penetration without the strain on your wrists or knees. O’Reilly recommends using pillows under your hips to support your back and adjust angles. “This can help accommodate changes in cervical position due to your cycle,” she adds.
10. The Snake
How to do it: Lie face down, legs together, while your partner lies on top and enters from behind.
Why it works: The close body contact and shallow thrusting increase internal pressure, while your clitoris can be stimulated by grinding against the mattress or a toy. “Squeeze your legs together to heighten the sensation,” O’Reilly suggests.
11. Tabletop
How to do it: Sit on the edge of a table with your legs parted. Your partner stands between them and penetrates you.
Why it works: Changing the setting adds a spontaneous edge. “Wrap your legs around your partner to control depth, or place your feet on their chest to tease them and take control,” says O’Reilly.
The Bottom Line:
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to sex. What’s pleasurable for one couple might not be for another — and that’s okay. The key is ongoing communication, openness to experimentation, and making intimacy a space where both partners feel seen, satisfied, and connected.
Whether you try all 11 or just a few, these positions offer new ways to enjoy each other and deepen your sexual connection.
Sources:
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Dr. Kat Van Kirk, relationship and sex expert
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Dr. Jess O’Reilly, sexologist and host of Sex With Dr. Jess podcast