Skip to content
GoodRxMedicine.com
Guide

How to Spice Up Intimacy in the Bedroom with New Sex Positions

Couple sharing an intimate moment beside relationship intimacy tips

Published on

Updated on

Share

Most couples stick to familiar sex positions such as missionary, doggy style, cowgirl, and spooning. While these positions can be pleasurable and provide deep penetration, but relying on the same routine over time can make intimacy feel predictable and less exciting. This can further reduce sexual satisfaction, lower anticipation, and lead to boredom in your bedroom.

When left unaddressed, it can result in frustration and emotional distance for some couples. If you are experiencing the same, it is the right time to explore new sex positions. Trying new positions brings novelty back into your bedroom and helps you discover different angles, movements, and types of stimulation. Positions such as the socket, reverse cowgirl, swinging 69, and hot seat can encourage you to communicate more openly and explore what feels pleasurable for both partners.

This guide discusses 11 new positions you can try during intercourse. You do not need to master every position or perform it exactly as discussed. Treat each option as a starting point and adjust it to suit your comfort, movement, and preferences. Before you begin, discuss consent and boundaries, and keep lubricant, pillows, and suitable protection within easy reach.

1. The socket position

Illustrated guide explaining The Socket sexual position for couples

If you want to slow down and explore a more connected approach, the socket position is worth a try. In this position, the receiving partner sits over the penetrating partner’s extended leg. This side-lying arrangement encourages slow grinding, which can increase external stimulation while allowing both partners to guide the rhythm. Before trying it, talk about sex, comfort, and preferred movements with your partner

How to do it:

  • The penetrating partner lies on one side with one leg extended and the other bent for support.
  • The receiving partner sits over the extended thigh while facing the partner’s feet and guides penetration at a comfortable pace.
  • Once both partners are comfortable, use slow forward-and-back grinding instead of deep thrusting.
  • Adjust body weight with your hands or pillows and pause whenever you need to reposition.

2. The pushing tush position

Illustrated guide demonstrating the Pushing Tush anal sex position

If you and your partner enjoy anal intercourse but want more closeness than a traditional rear-entry position offers, consider the pushing tush. Since it is performed face-to-face, it allows steady eye contact, easier communication, and a close physical connection, making the experience feel more intimate.

How to do it:

  • The penetrating partner kneels between the receiving partner’s legs while facing them.
  • The receiving partner lies on their back with a pillow under the hips and brings the knees gently toward the chest.
  • Apply plenty of lubricant and use a new condom before beginning penetration.
  • Start with slow, gentle movements while the receiving partner controls the depth and pace.

3. The hot seat position

Illustrated guide showing the Hot Seat seated sex position

The hot seat can spice up bedroom romance when you want close contact without giving up control. The receiving partner sits facing away on the penetrating partner’s lap, usually the man’s, and can guide the depth and pace with her hips. She can lean forward for greater freedom or rest against his chest for a slower, more intimate experience.

How to do it:

  • The penetrating partner sits securely on a sturdy chair or the edge of the bed with both feet on the floor.
  • The receiving partner lowers onto their lap while facing away and guides penetration slowly.
  • Use gentle rocking or small lifting movements instead of fast bouncing.
  • Lean backward for closer body contact or forward for greater freedom of movement.

4. The reverse cowgirl position

Illustrated guide showing the Reverse Cowgirl sex position

Reverse cowgirl can feel less intimidating for someone who wants to be on top without maintaining constant eye contact. The woman usually takes the receiving role and faces away from the man, giving her more freedom to explore the speed, depth, and movement that feel best for her. She can lean forward, grind slowly, or move up and down while using her hands for balance.

How to do it:

  • If you are penetrating, lie comfortably on your back with your legs straight or slightly bent.
  • If you are receiving, kneel over your partner’s hips while facing their feet.
  • Guide the penis into place and lower yourself gradually.
  • Keep your torso upright and your knees beside your partner’s hips for balance.
  • Try slow grinding, small circles, or gentle up-and-down movements.
  • Support yourself on the bed, your thighs, or your partner’s legs.
  • Avoid leaning far backward, as this can bend the penis painfully.

5. The butter churner position

Illustrated guide showing the Butter Churner sex position

For couples ready to try something more adventurous, the butter churner offers an intense angle and a completely different view. The steep angle can make penetration feel deeper and more intense. So, take it slow, stay connected, and use proper support to keep the experience comfortable and pleasurable.

How to do it:

  • The receiving partner lies on their back and brings their knees toward their chest.
  • Place a firm pillow beneath the hips, keeping the shoulders and upper back supported on the bed.
  • The penetrating partner kneels or squats close enough to begin penetration at a comfortable angle.
  • Start with slow, shallow thrusts and adjust the depth gradually based on both partners’ comfort.
  • Hold the receiving partner’s hips or thighs for stability and maintain a steady rhythm while communicating throughout.
Tip Skip this position if either of you has neck, back, balance, or blood-pressure concerns. Stop immediately if you feel dizziness, numbness, or sharp pain.

6. The spider position

Illustrated guide showing the seated Spider sex position

The spider position lets both partners contribute to creating the rhythm, rather than leaving one person to do all the work. You sit face-to-face in a relaxed, spider-like pose. Its low angle encourages shared grinding, eye contact, and plenty of opportunities to move closer for kissing and touch.

How to do it:

  • The penetrating partner sits with bent knees, places the feet beside the receiving partner, and leans back on the hands.
  • The receiving partner sits face-to-face between the partner’s legs and lowers their hips gently for penetration.
  • Both partners lean back slightly and create short, shared grinding movements by lifting and lowering their hips.
  • Sit more upright for kissing or close contact whenever either partner’s arms begin to tire.

7. The wheelbarrow position

Illustrated guide showing the Wheelbarrow sex position

The wheelbarrow brings a playful, energetic challenge into the bedroom and works well for couples who enjoy more active positions. The receiving partner supports their upper body on the bed while the penetrating partner stands behind and lifts their legs. This raised angle can create deeper sensations, but balance, teamwork, and a steady pace matter more than speed.

How to do it:

  • The receiving partner supports their upper body with their hands or forearms near the edge of a firm bed.
  • The penetrating partner stands behind and lifts the receiving partner’s legs by holding their thighs.
  • Once both partners feel stable, bring the receiving partner’s legs toward the penetrating partner’s waist and begin penetration slowly.
  • The receiving partner can wrap their legs loosely around their partner’s hips if it improves comfort and stability.
  • Maintain slow, controlled movements while the penetrating partner continues supporting their partner’s weight, and both partners communicate throughout.

8. The double-decker position

Illustrated guide showing the Double-Decker sex position

The double-decker combines the sensations of rear-entry intercourse with the warmth of lying close together. The receiving partner gradually reclines over the penetrating partner, who lies beneath. With both bodies facing the same direction, you can enjoy slow rocking, full-body contact, and an easy transition into spooning when you want to relax.

How to do it:

  • The penetrating partner lies flat on their back with the legs comfortably extended.
  • The receiving partner sits over the partner’s hips while facing their feet and gradually reclines against their chest.
  • Once upright, begin penetration with slow rocking or shallow hip rolls.
  • Keep some weight on the elbows, hands, or feet, or turn onto one side together if the lower partner feels pressure.

9. The rocking horse position

Illustrated guide showing the Rocking Horse seated sex position

The rocking horse is a good choice when you want intimacy to be slow, gentle, affectionate, and connected. The receiving partner sits facing the penetrating partner on their lap, bringing both bodies close enough to enhance emotional intimacy through kissing, touching, and eye contact. Rather than bouncing, you move together in a gentle rocking rhythm that keeps both partners involved.

How to do it:

  • The penetrating partner sits upright against a headboard or firm pillow with the legs relaxed.
  • The receiving partner faces them, settles onto their lap, and keeps both knees supported on the bed.
  • Hold each other for support and keep the chests close when beginning penetration.
  • Rock the pelvises together in a smooth rhythm, adjusting the hip angle whenever either partner wants a different sensation.

10. The frogtie position

Illustrated guide showing the Frogtie restrained sex position

The frogtie can add a controlled sense of vulnerability for couples interested in exploring consensual restraint. The restrained person usually takes the receiving role, while the unrestrained partner gives oral stimulation or takes the penetrating role. With the legs gently secured in a bent position, you can explore touching, oral stimulation, toys, or penetration while maintaining clear communication and regular comfort checks.

Before starting, you should discuss boundaries with your partner, decide how you’ll remove restraints, and agree on a signal or safe word for stopping.

How to do it:

  • The penetrating partner uses wide, quick-release cuffs or soft ties to secure each ankle near the receiving partner’s same-side thigh.
  • The receiving partner bends both knees comfortably and chooses whether to lie on their back, side, or front.
  • Leave enough space to slide two fingers under each restraint, and support the legs with pillows when needed.
  • Move slowly, check circulation and comfort often, and remove the restraints immediately if pain, numbness, or tingling occurs.
Tip Keep blunt scissors within reach to immediately release the restraint if your partner experiences panic, joint pain, skin discoloration, numbness, tingling, or cold skin. 

11. The soap and grope position

Illustrated guide showing the Soap and Grope standing shower sex position

The soap and grope can make intimacy feel spontaneous by moving it from the bedroom into a warm shower. The receiving partner faces a stable surface while the penetrating partner stands behind. Warm water and close body contact can heighten the mood. Keep movements slow, stay connected, and ensure both partners have a secure footing on the slippery surface.

Difficulty: Moderate

How to do it:

  • The penetrating partner stands directly behind the receiving partner with the feet placed wide enough for balance.
  • The receiving partner faces the wall, holds a secure grab bar, and bends the knees slightly until both partners’ hips align.
  • Place a nonslip mat on the shower floor and apply shower-safe lubricant without spilling it onto the standing area.
  • Once both partners’ hips are aligned, begin penetration.
  • Use short, slow movements while both partners maintain a secure hold.

Once you find a stable stance, keep checking in with each other and adjust the pace whenever needed. This same approach applies to every unfamiliar position: start slowly, communicate throughout, and stop immediately if either partner experiences sharp pain, numbness, dizziness, or joint strain. Comfort and safety should always come first when exploring intimacy in a healthy relationship.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I improve intimacy with my partner?

You can improve intimacy by discussing your desires, concerns, and boundaries without judgment. Set aside distraction-free time for shared activities and show affection outside of intercourse. During intimacy, communicate openly about pace, pressure, and comfort. Consult a doctor or therapist if you experience Low Libido symptoms, persistent pain during sex, or ongoing relationship difficulties.

Can trying new sex positions improve intimacy?

Yes, trying new sex positions can improve intimacy by promoting communication, adding novelty, and helping you learn preferred stimulation and angles. However, novelty alone does not ensure emotional closeness. Have an open communication to choose positions together, discuss comfort, and prioritize mutual pleasure and consent, rather than treating each position as a performance goal.

How can couples safely try new sex positions?

To safely try new sex positions, choose one position that is suitable for both of your experiences and bodily movements. First, discuss boundaries, use lubricants and protection, and keep pillows for support. Start slowly with shallow movements and communicate throughout. Stop immediately if either partner experiences dizziness, numbness, pain, muscle pain, or breathing difficulty.

Are new sex positions suitable for beginners?

Yes, some new sex positions are suitable for beginners, particularly those that offer body support and enable easy control, such as hot seat, rocking horse, or reverse cowgirl. Start on a firm bed, use pillows and lubricant, and choose comfortable positions with simple movements. Avoid suspended or restrained positions until you understand the technique.CitationNIHResearchGate

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Written byJulian, MBA in Pharmaceutical Management

Julian Carter is a highly accomplished MBA graduate in Pharmaceutical Management, celebrated for his extensive experience and exceptional skills in the pharmaceutical industry. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, Julian is a valuable contributor to the field and a trusted voice in pharmaceutical management. As a contributing writer for Goodrxmedicine.com, Julian is committed to educating and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. His passion for the industry is evident in his work, and his dedication to improving the lives of others through education and empowerment is truly remarkable. With a reputation for excellence and a track record of success, Julian Carter is a respected and admired figure in pharmaceutical management. His insights and contributions to the field are highly valued, and her expertise has helped shape the direction of the industry for the better. Through his work as a contributing writer for Goodrxmedicine.com and beyond, Julian continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of many. His commitment to excellence and dedication to improving the health of individuals and communities around the world make him an inspiration to others in the field.

Learn More
Medically reviewed byJames Mitchell, MD

Dr. James Mitchell is a board-certified physician with 18+ years of clinical experience in Sexual Medicine and Reproductive Health. He helps patients navigate intimate health concerns through medically sound guidance and compassionate, patient-centered care.

Learn More
Laborday footer banner

Join Now For Exclusive Offers

Unlock the world of wellness with exciting deals and informative content