Anna
A named, personal position that feels like a secret between two.
About This Position
Named after a person, Anna is an intimate, personal position that feels like a secret shared between lovers. The receiving partner lies on their side while the penetrating partner holds them close, creating a sense of private, personal pleasure.
Best For
Anatomy & Physiology
Muscle Groups Involved
- Glutes
- Hip flexors
- Core
- Inner thighs
Angle of Penetration
Shallow, focused on external stimulation
Targeted Pleasure Zones
Body Contact Points
Step-by-Step Guide
Both partners lie facing each other on their sides in a cozy, intimate arrangement — Anna is a personal, side-by-side position that starts with closeness and eye contact.
The receiving partner bends their top leg forward slightly to open the entry angle along the anterior wall, while the penetrating partner aligns their pelvis close behind.
Enter from the side at a shallow angle — Anna's penetration is intentionally shallow, designed for gentle G-spot contact rather than depth.
The penetrating partner wraps one arm around the receiver's waist or chest, pulling them close — the full-body back-to-chest contact is what makes Anna feel personal and special.
Rock together in a slow, synchronized side-to-side motion — movement comes from gentle pelvic rocking, not thrusting, maintaining the shallow G-spot angle.
Whisper to each other during — the side-by-side closeness creates an intimate space for verbal connection that enhances the physical sensation.
Use the free hand to caress the receiver's neck, face, or clitoris — the side-lying position leaves hands available for tender, personal touch.
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.
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:
- • Mayo Clinic — Sexual Health
- • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) — Sexual Health
- • National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
- • Cleveland Clinic — Sexual Health
- • Healthline — Healthy Sex & Relationships
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
- + Feels personal and special
- + Very intimate and tender
- + Easy to maintain
- + Great for slow, loving sex
Cons
- - Very shallow penetration
- - Limited movement
- - May feel too slow for some
Tips
- * Whisper to each other during
- * Focus on the feeling of being close
- * Let the personal connection be the focus
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 Anna position:
Trying to thrust from the side
Anna is a side-lying position with limited range of motion. Thrusting forward and backward creates awkward angles and strains the hips. The motion should be a gentle rocking of the combined pelvises.
Creating space between the torsos
Anna's personal, intimate quality depends on full back-to-chest contact. If there's a gap between the partners' bodies, the closeness that defines the position is lost. Press together.
Expecting deep penetration
Anna is designed for shallow, gentle G-spot stimulation. Pushing for deeper penetration strains the side-lying mechanics and can be uncomfortable. Enjoy the shallow angle for what it is.
Rushing the tender connection
Anna is about personal intimacy and tenderness. Rushing through the position to reach orgasm misses its greatest strength — the whispered words, the slow closeness, the feeling of being cherished.
Variations to Try
Once you've mastered the basic Anna, these variations can add new sensations and keep things exciting:
Add a Pillow
Place a pillow under the receiving partner's hips to change the angle of penetration and enhance stimulation.
Incorporate Manual Stimulation
Use hands to add clitoral or other external stimulation during the position for enhanced pleasure.
Slow Down the Pace
Switch from thrusting to grinding for a more intimate, sensation-focused experience.
Try Different Surfaces
Move from the bed to a couch, standing, or against a wall for different angles and experiences.
Related Positions
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Prone Bone
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Reverse Cowgirl
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Lotus
A meditative, deeply connected seated embrace.
Butterfly
Lift the legs for deep penetration and eye contact.
Spooning
Cuddle close with this gentle, sensual side position.
Written by Dr. Sarah Mitchell
Certified Sex Therapist, PhD in Human Sexuality
Reviewed by Dr. James Chen
Board-Certified OB/GYN, 15+ Years Experience
Last reviewed: July 2026 | Content medically verified | Meet our full team
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