Anal Sex Positions Guide: 7 Anal Sex Positions

Any sex act related to the anus is considered anal sex, including anal penetration, fingering, analingus (also known as rimming), and pegging. The anus and rectum are filled with sensitive nerve endings that, when stimulated, can produce a pleasurable sensation no matter your gender or sexual orientation.

Practicing safer anal sex and maintaining good hygiene practices are key for any type of anal play.

• Cleanliness: Your anus naturally contains bacteria, which can spread during anal sex. Having vaginal sex right after anal sex can cause a vaginal infection. Always remember to change your condom and wash yourself before and after anal sex. Pathogens passed via oral-anal sex (also known as rimming or analingus) can include E. coli and the hepatitis A virus. Consider using a dental dam if you plan to participate in analingus.
• Lubrication: Proper lubrication is essential for any form of anal play. Start by applying a generous amount of lube in and around your anal opening. Apply additional lube to your finger, penis, or sex toy before insertion, and reapply often. Consider water-based lubricants or silicone-based lubricants, which last longer. (Oil-based lubes are not safe to use with condoms as they break down latex.)
• Communication: Before engaging in anal play with your partner, make sure you have their consent.

Many sex positions can be modified for anal sex. If you communicate well with your partner and use plenty of lube, you can experiment with different positions to find one that works best for you.

1. 1. Adjusted missionary: For beginners, an adjusted missionary position is a great place to start. Missionary is an intimate position that facilitates eye contact and clear communication between partners, which is essential for safer anal sex. Lie on your back with your legs spread. Place a pillow under your hips to give your penetrative partner a better angle. For deep penetration, consider placing your heels on top of your partner’s shoulders to further open your anal canal.
2. 2. Cowgirl: This position allows the receiving partner to control the depth of penetration at their own pace. If you’re the receiving partner, you can face forward towards your partner or turn away in the reverse cowgirl position. Rest on your knees and carefully slide down onto your partner’s penis or strap-on dildo. Take your time and let your anal sphincter muscles adjust to the sensation.
3. 3. Spooning: Rest on your side and have your partner spoon and penetrate you from behind. The spooning position is well suited for additional stimulation of other erogenous zones—the penetrative partner can reach around the receiving partner to rub their breasts, penis, nipples, clitoris, scrotum, or vagina.
4. 4. Seated: While the receiving partner sits on a stool or sex swing with their anal region over the edge of the seat, the penetrative partner thrusts from behind. This seated position allows the receiving partner to relax their arms and legs, which can help loosen the anal sphincter muscles. This is a good position for experimenting with sex toys designed specifically to stimulate the nerves in your anus, like anal beads, butt plugs, and prostate massagers. These toys are typically made from a non-porous material like medical-grade silicone or stainless steel, and some include a vibration setting. Only use anal toys with a flared base or looped handle for easy removal, and remember to reapply lube onto your sex toys regularly during anal sex.
5. 5. Doggy style: In this position, the receiving partner gets on their hands and knees with the penetrative partner in a kneeling position behind them. Doggy style is helpful for anal stimulation as it naturally allows for easier access to the anus; it’s also a good position for performing analingus.
6. 6. Lying doggy: If you are the receiving partner, lie face down with your penetrative partner straddling you from behind. This position can help to ease your sphincter muscles. Practice deep breathing exercises and relax your muscles while your partner gently pushes into your anus.
7. 7. Standing: If you are experienced with anal sex, consider standing positions. Stand with your legs slightly spread open and bend over, laying your upper body against a bed, or touch the floor with your hands if you’re flexible enough. This position allows both partners to control their movements against each other.

Craving a little more intimacy? Grab a MasterClass Annual Membership and learn more about open communication with your partners, experimenting in the bedroom, and being your own best sexual advocate with a little help from Emily Morse (host of the wildly popular podcast Sex With Emily).