According to the Complete Manual of Sexual Positions (Stewart, 1990), there are 116 vaginal entry positions, and, in The New Joy of Sex (Comfort & Rubenstein, 1992), 112 positions are illustrated. Of course, we don’t have enough room to describe all of these positions, so we will limit this discussion to the four main positions for sexual intercourse: male-on-top, female-on-top, rear entry, and side-by-side. There are advantages and disadvantages to each of these positions, and each couple must choose the sexual positions that are best for them.
Male-on-Top The male-on-top (also called the “missionary” or “male superior”) position is one of the most common positions for sexual intercourse. In this position, the woman lies on her back and spreads her legs, often bending her knees to make penetration easier. The man positions himself on top of the woman, between her legs (see Figure 10.11). Because his full weight is usually uncomfortable and perhaps even
painful for the woman, he should support himself on his arms or elbows and knees. Either partner may guide the penis into the vagina, although in this position the male controls thrusting.
The male-on-top position allows deep penetration during intercourse and enables the partners to look at each other, kiss, and hug during sexual intercourse. The woman can move her legs up around her partner or even put them on his shoulders. She can also use a pillow under her hips to increase clitoral stimulation. For some couples, this posi-
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Human Sexuality in a Diverse World