12 Sex Positions That Actually Stimulate the Clitoris
When it comes to pleasure, the clitoris often doesn’t get the airtime it deserves. While penetrative sex gets most of the attention, many people with vulvas don’t orgasm from penetration alone. In fact, for a lot of women, clitoral stimulation isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.
That’s not to say penetration isn’t enjoyable. But when you’re looking to maximise pleasure or have a more reliable route to orgasm, focusing on the clitoris can make a world of difference. And no, that doesn’t always mean stopping everything for oral or using your hand. Some sex positions are designed to stimulate the clitoris during penetration, either through body contact, strategic angles, or just a little creativity.
In this guide, we’ll look at 12 sex positions that actively incorporate clitoral stimulation. Some use pressure, others allow for direct hand contact, and a few encourage grinding over thrusting. The point isn’t to tick all 12 off a list. It’s to try what feels right for you, and hopefully discover something new that actually works.
Let’s get into the details.
Missionary with a Twist: The Coital Alignment Technique
Why the angle matters more than the depth
At first glance, this might just look like regular missionary. But the Coital Alignment Technique (CAT) turns a basic position into one of the most clitoris-friendly out there. Instead of thrusting up and down, the penetrating partner slides upward slightly, allowing their pubic bone or base of the shaft to press directly against the clitoris.
The magic is in the motion. Instead of fast, deep thrusts, you both engage in a kind of slow rocking. It’s more about rubbing and grinding than it is about speed or force. With the right alignment, nearly every movement stimulates the clit in some way.
A cushion under the hips can help lift the pelvis and fine-tune the angle. And don’t be afraid to stop mid-movement to adjust things, this position isn’t about performance, it’s about tuning into sensation. A little feedback from your partner here makes a big difference.
It’s also an incredibly intimate position. Eye contact, kissing, breathing in sync, all of that comes naturally when you're face to face and fully present. For many, it’s not just physically satisfying, it’s emotionally bonding too.
Some people describe this position as the closest a couple can get to turning solo clitoral stimulation into something shared. It’s subtle, but powerful. And once you get the hang of the movement, it can become your go-to for when you want something slow but intensely satisfying.
Cowgirl: Control, Pressure and Clitoral Freedom
Taking charge of rhythm and stimulation
The cowgirl position puts the person with the vulva in control, and that alone makes a difference when clitoral stimulation is the goal. Sitting on top, facing your partner, gives you the freedom to find the angle and rhythm that works and to maintain consistent pressure on your clitoris.
You can grind rather than bounce. Leaning slightly forward lets your partner’s pelvis press against your clit, especially if you keep the movement more circular than up-and-down. Leaning back slightly, on the other hand, might allow space for using your hand during penetration. Either can work depending on what you’re after.
This position also allows for multitasking. A hand, a bullet vibrator, even a strategically placed pillow underneath, all of these can be added without disrupting the flow. And your partner can contribute, too, by offering their hands or shifting their hips to increase pressure where it counts.
People often find cowgirl especially helpful for building toward orgasm at their own pace. You’re not being moved, you’re doing the moving. That sense of control doesn’t just feel empowering, it allows for subtle adjustments in movement that can keep clitoral contact steady without overwhelming other sensations.
This one isn’t about cardio. Take it slow. Make small changes in position until you feel things line up. Because once they do, the feedback loop between penetration and clitoral pressure can create some pretty intense results.
Spooning: Lazy, Cozy, Surprisingly Effective
When you want closeness and clitoral access
Spooning doesn’t scream “earth-shattering orgasm,” but it might surprise you. The angle of penetration is softer, more sideways, and that creates room for manual or toy-based clitoral stimulation.
The receiving partner lies on their side, with the penetrating partner behind. Because the motion is more subtle and close-contact, it tends to slow things down. That’s a plus when clitoral stimulation is involved, it allows you to focus on sensation, not just rhythm.
What makes this position so versatile is the access. Your partner’s hand can easily reach around, or you can stimulate your clit yourself without losing rhythm. Add a small bullet vibrator and you’ve got a hands-free bonus that won’t interfere with movement or connection.
Spooning is also a great choice for those who want emotional closeness. You’re wrapped up together, and movement is more fluid than thrust-based. It can work beautifully during a slower session or even as a build-up to something more intense.
The only downside? It can take some adjustment to get the angle of penetration just right. But once you do, you’ll likely find this position surprisingly efficient for combined penetration and external stimulation.
Reverse Cowgirl with a Tilt
A new perspective on pressure and friction
Like its forward-facing cousin, reverse cowgirl gives the person on top full control. But the difference in direction opens up a slightly different set of sensations. When you lean forward while facing away from your partner, your clit can press more firmly against their pelvis, or even against your own hand.
It’s not as intimate, there’s no eye contact but it’s highly effective. You can rock or grind, and you’re free to reach down and stimulate your clit while keeping a rhythm that works for you. Some even find the visual element adds another layer of arousal.
To maximise clitoral contact, lean slightly forward. That brings your vulva into contact with more of your partner’s body. Add in a toy or use your fingers and you’ve got a position that stimulates both inside and out with little interference.
Reverse cowgirl also lets you experiment with pace. Go slow, circle your hips, or pause entirely to build sensation. You won’t feel pressure to "keep up" with your partner’s thrusts because you set the rhythm from the start.
For people who like a more dominant or exhibitionist vibe, this position might hit multiple pleasure points at once.
Doggy Style with Pillow Support
Adjusting angles for better clitoral alignment
Doggy style is often thought of as deep, intense, and less about clitoral stimulation. But a slight modification can turn it into something surprisingly effective for clit contact too. The trick? Use a firm pillow or cushion under the hips of the receiving partner.
With the right elevation, the angle of penetration shifts so that the penetrating partner’s pubic bone or lower abdomen presses more closely against the clitoris with each movement. Instead of all the focus being on depth, there’s now pressure from above, a kind of rub or grind with every thrust.
Another benefit is access. This position allows one partner (or the receiving partner themselves) to easily reach around and stimulate the clitoris manually. Some people even hold a small toy in place during, keeping the buzz steady throughout.
Slowing down the rhythm helps too. When you’re not pounding away, you’re more likely to feel what’s happening externally as well. That pressure, consistent and rhythmic can be far more effective than deeper thrusts alone.
The best part is you can adjust the angle to suit your body. Higher cushion? More pressure. Lower angle? More access. It’s a flexible position that can become very clit-friendly with small changes.
And just because it’s a rear-entry position doesn’t mean it’s distant or cold. You can still maintain physical closeness, touch your partner’s back, talk to each other, or use mirrors to add intimacy in a different way.
If you’ve tried doggy before and found it intense but not especially orgasmic, this adjusted version might change your mind. All it takes is a pillow, a slower rhythm, and maybe a hand or two joining in.
Face-to-Face Seated (Lap Position)
Connection meets clitoral contact
This position, often called the lap position, involves sitting face-to-face - one partner seated with the other straddling them. Think of it like a seated version of missionary and cowgirl combined. It’s especially good for couples who want both emotional intimacy and physical stimulation.
Because you're chest to chest, the clitoris often lines up naturally with the partner’s pelvic area. That contact point can be used to gently grind, not just thrust. Rocking motions tend to feel better than bouncing here, and they create a rhythmic pressure on the clitoris.
One of the biggest benefits? Hands are free. Both partners can touch, guide, or stimulate the clit during penetration. That adds another layer to the experience and means you can adjust the intensity as needed.
It’s a physically close position, so you feel each other’s breath, heartbeat, and movement. That can actually help partners sync up their rhythm more naturally. And when you’re trying to maintain steady clitoral stimulation, being able to read each other like that is a real advantage.
It’s also a good one for taking your time. You don’t have to move fast to feel a build-up. Just stay close, shift slightly forward or back, and let your bodies work together. Many find that the comfort and warmth of this position makes it easier to focus on sensation rather than performance.
You can sit on a sturdy chair, on the edge of a bed, or even on the floor with cushions. It’s not about flexibility or stamina it’s about presence. If you’re looking for a clitoral orgasm during penetrative sex but don’t want to sacrifice that emotional closeness, this one’s well worth exploring.
Standing with Bent Knees (Against a Wall)
Vertical pleasure with room for hands
Standing sex tends to get romanticised in movies but let’s be honest real life standing sex can be awkward. That said, when done right, it can offer solid clitoral stimulation with the bonus of something that feels a little spontaneous.
Start with one partner leaning against a wall for support, ideally with slightly bent knees. The penetrating partner stands in front, guiding their body in at a slight upward angle. Because the bodies are more upright, the clitoris often makes contact with the partner’s lower abdomen, especially during closer movements.
This position isn’t about fast, deep thrusts. It’s more like a dance - press, rock, adjust. The upright angle also gives full access to the clit for hands or a toy. The partner leaning back can reach down, or the other can slide a hand between bodies for ongoing stimulation.
Wall support is key here. Without it, balance gets tricky, and the rhythm breaks down. But with stability, you get a position that’s both vertical and deeply connected. It's perfect for quick, spontaneous encounters or drawn-out sessions where the focus is on teasing.
If balance is a concern, use furniture. A strong countertop, a windowsill, or even the edge of a table can recreate the angle without risking a wobble. Some people even find the control in this position helpful for edging that is, building to orgasm, then backing off.
This one might take a little experimentation, especially if you're new to standing sex. But when it clicks, it can combine clitoral pressure, access for hands, and an exciting change of pace.
Lotus Position
Deep connection with gentle grind
Lotus is another seated position, but here both partners are cross-legged or semi-cross-legged, facing each other. One partner wraps their legs around the other's waist. It’s incredibly close, literally and emotionally and offers a surprising level of clitoral stimulation.
Because your pelvises are pressed together and the movement is minimal, it allows for consistent contact between the clitoris and the pubic bone. Unlike other positions, there's no bouncing, no hard thrusts, just slow grinding. It’s one of the most "in-tune" positions, especially when it comes to external stimulation.
Eye contact, shared breathing, and the ability to move together make this a deeply intimate experience. But even with all that softness, it doesn’t miss on physical intensity. That constant rubbing during close-body movement creates friction in all the right places.
Hands can be involved too. You or your partner can stimulate the clitoris directly while moving together. Or, if you’re using a small toy, it can sit between your bodies during the grind.
Lotus might not be ideal for people with knee or hip discomfort, but with some cushions or a slightly altered posture (like one partner sitting on a couch while the other straddles), it can be adapted for comfort.
If you're after a position that values connection, stillness, and build-up rather than high-intensity movement, this one delivers.
Edge of the Bed (Receiver Lying Flat)
Access and angle in perfect balance
This one is wonderfully simple. One partner lies flat on their back at the very edge of the bed, bum right at the edge, while the other stands or kneels between their legs. It doesn’t sound revolutionary, but it creates the perfect opportunity for both G-spot penetration and clitoral stimulation.
Here’s why: the person standing can use their hands freely. They’re already positioned right in front, with the clitoris in clear reach. Whether it’s a hand, a thumb, or a small vibrator, this setup encourages multitasking in the best way.
Also, the flat surface underneath the receiving partner allows for stability. You’re not shifting or readjusting constantly, which means pressure on the clitoris can stay consistent. The one lying down can even use their own hand without awkward angles.
Add in some eye contact, gentle talk, or a bit of playful teasing, and the scene becomes as emotional as it is physical. The standing partner also has full control over rhythm and angle, which helps fine-tune the sensations.
Want to ramp it up? Raise the receiver’s legs slightly with a pillow or bend them at the knees, this can push the pelvis upward and bring more pressure to the clitoris from the pubic bone. Alternatively, keeping the legs wide offers space for added stimulation between bodies.
It's straightforward, it's adjustable, and it's incredibly effective. Sometimes the simplest positions offer the best access and this is a textbook example.
Modified Scissors
Tight, snug, and perfect for rubbing
This position looks a little like the scissoring you might imagine from media, but here it’s all about contact. Both partners lie on their sides, facing each other, with one leg slipped between the other’s thighs. It’s a tight, intertwined posture that brings pelvises close together.
What this setup does well is create pressure. Because your legs are slightly entwined, the clitoris is gently pressed against your partner’s pubic area. As you move together, slowly and rhythmically, the rubbing creates steady external stimulation.
You won’t get the depth of penetration seen in other positions, but that’s the point. This one prioritises closeness and friction over speed. It’s also relatively low-energy, which makes it ideal for slower sessions or those looking for sustained contact without acrobatics.
Add in a small clit vibe or a hand, and it turns into a double stimulation zone. You don’t need to hold yourself up or switch positions quickly, just stay connected, and let the closeness guide you.
Butterfly Position
Legs up, hips tilted, clitoris primed
In the butterfly, one partner lies flat on their back at the edge of a bed or table, with their legs raised and knees bent. The other partner stands or kneels at the edge, entering from the front. Because of the raised legs and tilted hips, the clitoris is naturally angled for rubbing contact.
The best part is how open the position is. There’s clear visual access, full reach for hands, and no awkward bending. The standing partner can use a hand or toy to stimulate the clitoris without breaking rhythm, while the receiving partner stays relaxed.
You can prop a pillow under the lower back to intensify the tilt, which increases pressure on the clitoris with every movement. Even light thrusts in this position tend to hit more angles, especially if the pubic bone brushes up during movement.
It’s not just effective, it’s comfortable, intimate, and ideal for combining penetration with focused clitoral contact. Great for experimenting with toys, fingers, or even using lubricant for a slippery, slow build.
It's Not Just About Position, It's About Attention
If there's one takeaway from this list, it's that clitoral stimulation doesn't need to be treated as something separate from sex, it can be part of the rhythm, the movement, the connection. And yet, for a long time, it's been overlooked. Or misunderstood. Maybe even dismissed altogether.
These 12 positions aren’t meant to be a checklist or a guarantee of orgasm. Bodies don’t work like that. But they offer something better... options. They create space for exploration, for adjusting the usual script, and for finding what genuinely feels good in your body (and in your partner’s, too).
It’s also worth saying that no position alone can replace communication. You can fold yourself into the most advanced, acrobatic pose imaginable but if neither of you is paying attention to each other, or to the feedback your bodies are giving, the result will always fall flat. On the flip side, even the simplest position, missionary with a slight shift can feel transformative when you're tuned into what works.
Clitoral stimulation is central to pleasure for most women, and that’s not something to be tiptoed around. Whether through pressure, hands, toys, or just clever alignment, building it into your sexual dynamic isn’t just a technique, it’s a mindset. A willingness to slow down, to experiment, to listen. To let go of the idea that “more” or “faster” is always better.
And honestly, some of the most memorable sexual experiences come not from getting it perfect, but from laughing through the adjustments, the toppled cushions, the awkward leg cramps then finding that, somewhere in the middle of it all, the pleasure finally lands. That’s where these positions come in. They’re not rules. They’re invitations.
So if you’ve been feeling like something’s been missing, or like penetrative sex hasn’t quite hit the mark, maybe this is your sign to shift focus. To try the slow grind instead of the hard thrust. To move your bodies, but also your attention, closer to the clitoris, and perhaps a little closer to each other in the process.
Pleasure isn’t a performance. It’s a conversation. These positions just give you better ways to start it.
