Is the Amateur position safe during pregnancy?

Yes, the Amateur position is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Generally safe during pregnancy — adjust depth and pace for comfort.

What difficulty level is the Amateur position?

The Amateur is a easy difficulty position. It requires low flexibility and causes minimal joint stress.

#171 Classic Easy

Amateur

A simple, straightforward position for beginners.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. James Chen, Board-Certified OB/GYN

Penetration: Medium

Stimulation: Clitoral

About This Position

The most basic version of missionary — the receiving partner lies on their back while the penetrating partner lies on top. No tricks, no fancy angles — just simple, honest, straightforward sex. Perfect for beginners.

Best For

BeginnersSimplicityComfort

Anatomy & Physiology

Muscle Groups Involved

Glutes
Hip flexors
Core
Inner thighs

Angle of Penetration

Straight-on, medium depth with adjustable angle

Targeted Pleasure Zones

ClitorisAnterior vaginal wall

Body Contact Points

Chest to chestPelvis to pelvisHands on hips or chestFace to face

Step-by-Step Guide

The receiving partner lies on their back, relaxed and comfortable. The penetrating partner positions themselves between the receiving partner's legs, supporting their weight on their forearms to avoid crushing the receiving partner.

Enter slowly while maintaining eye contact — the missionary's face-to-face alignment makes checking in easy. Start with gentle movements and increase pace based on the receiving partner's response.

The penetrating partner uses their body weight to create close contact — chest to chest, pelvis to pelvis. The full-body contact creates the intimate, connected feeling that defines missionary.

The receiving partner can wrap their legs around the penetrating partner's waist to control depth and angle. Legs flat on the bed = shallower; legs wrapped = deeper and more targeted.

Use the penetrating partner's free hands for caressing — face, hair, breasts, or clitoris. The missionary allows easy hand access for additional stimulation during penetration.

This is the classic position for a reason — it's simple, comfortable, and effective. Don't overthink it; let the simplicity create the connection.

Safety & Precautions

Warnings

! Communicate with your partner about comfort throughout.

Modifications

* Use pillows for support and comfort.
* Adjust the angle or depth based on your partner's feedback.

Flexibility: Low Joint Stress: Minimal Pregnancy Safe

Generally safe during pregnancy — adjust depth and pace for comfort.

Medical References & Sources

The information on this page has been reviewed for accuracy by certified health professionals. The following peer-reviewed and authoritative sources were used in developing this guide:

Health Disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare professional before trying new positions, especially if you have back pain, joint issues, are pregnant, or have any medical condition. Stop immediately if you experience pain.

Pros

+ Simple and easy to learn
+ Comfortable for both partners
+ Great for beginners

Cons

- Can feel boring for experienced couples
- Limited variety

Tips

* Start with this position if you're new to sex
* Use pillows to adjust the angle

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the right technique, small errors can reduce pleasure or increase injury risk. Here are the most common mistakes couples make with the Amateur position:

Crushing the receiving partner with full body weight

The penetrating partner must support weight on forearms or hands. Lying fully on the receiving partner restricts breathing and causes discomfort. Support your weight — the closeness is from contact, not crushing.

Thrusting only from the hips

The missionary allows movement from the entire body — rocking the pelvis, shifting weight, using the legs. Hip-only thrusting is inefficient and tiring. Use your whole body for the movement.

Not adjusting for the receiving partner's pleasure

The missionary can feel one-sided if the receiving partner isn't actively participating. The receiving partner should use their legs, hands, and voice to guide the experience, not lie passively.

Dismissing it as "boring"

The missionary is simple, not boring. Its simplicity allows for deep emotional connection, easy communication, and versatile stimulation. Dismissing it means missing what makes it a classic.