Sex positions are the various ways people can place their bodies during sex. There are four main categories of penetrative sex positions:
- Penetrating partner on top.
- Receiving partner on top.
- Sideways or side-by-side.
- Rear-entry.
These different types of sex positions are often adaptable for vaginal and anal sex. Different sex positions vary the depth and angle of penetration. This changes the sensations couples feel. While most sex positions are designed for penetrative sex, there are also oral sex positions, including analingus positions, and masturbation positions.
People are creative and unique in the way they experience sex. A large number of documented sex positions and variations on them reflect different sexual tastes and physical abilities.
Some of the earliest recorded sex positions come from a Greco-Roman sex manual from the 3rd to 1st century BC. The Kama Sutra, which dates back to at least the 3rd century AD, is one of the best-known historic sex manuals. Historic paintings and other artworks also suggest people have tried various sex positions throughout time.
In recent years, new and creative sex positions and variations on established positions have been documented. The internet has made sex positions that were once taboo or unusual enter the mainstream.