What is the missionary position?

In the missionary position, the receiving partner lies on their back, while the penetrating partner is on top of the other partner. The heads of both partners face each other during sex in this position.

In this intimate position, the partner on top has the freedom to determine the rhythm and speed of the movements. Although the missionary position is the most popular sex position in the Western world, it is interesting to note that this specific position is not mentioned in the Kama Sutra, the primary Indian textbook on love, sexuality, marriage, and emotional growth.

Where does the name come from?

The missionary position—also known as the missionary stance—is considered one of the most traditional sex positions. There are two different versions regarding the origin of the term missionary position. According to one story, missionaries spread this position among various populations because, at the time, it was not considered appropriate to have sexual intercourse in other positions.

A second story suggests that the name is derived from the alleged sexual activities of missionaries. During the sexual revolution in the late 1960s, the missionary position was often used as a symbol to mock the restrictions the church imposed on believers.

Advantages of this position

• Deep penetration is possible in the missionary position
• It is a very easy posture, making it the perfect position for the first time
• Heads are facing each other, so you can look at each other and even kiss
• A safe position, with no risk of awkward accidents

Disadvantages of this position

• Little freedom of movement for the person on the bottom
• Tiring position for the back and shoulders of the person on top
• The partner on top determines the rhythm and speed, essentially having the person on the bottom completely in their control
• Active stimulation of the clitoris is almost impossible in this position
• Difficult for women to reach orgasm

What variations of the missionary position are there?

There are several variations of the missionary position. Read them below and make your adventures under the sheets even more exciting:

• Seated variation: In this position, the person on top does not lie flat but supports themselves on hands and knees, thus partially sitting. It is an excellent alternative for those interested in anal sex.

• Deep cave position: The person on the bottom lies on their back with legs slightly raised and knees bent, while the person on top supports themselves on hands and knees and is thus partially sitting. This position allows for deeper penetration than the standard missionary position. Extra pleasure and enjoyment, then!

• Legs up: The person on the bottom raises their legs and places them on the giver’s shoulders.

• Kinky twist: In this variation, the giver must tie the receiver to the bed, for example, with handcuffs. For extra excitement, a blindfold and/or a small whip can also be added.

• Upright missionary: The receiver lies on the bed right at the foot, while the giver stands in front of it. The receiver places their feet against the giver’s chest. The giver can hold the receiver’s legs for support or to move them into another position, such as wide-legged. This way, the giver has control over the depth of penetration.

In addition to all these variations of the missionary position, you can also use exciting products with this sex position to revitalize your sex life. A massage oil or lubricant is always a pleasant addition, especially as a warm-up during foreplay.

Also consider using a (vibrating) ring. The vibrations of such a ring are very stimulating for both the giver and the receiver, and wearing such a ring can help a man maintain a longer erection.