Guillotine
A sharp, intense position with a dropping motion.
About This Position
The receiving partner lies on the edge of the bed with their hips at the edge, while the penetrating partner stands and uses a dropping, guillotine-like motion. The sudden drops create intense sensations and a feeling of being overwhelmed.
Best For
Anatomy & Physiology
Muscle Groups Involved
- Hamstrings
- Hip flexors
- Lower back
- Core
Angle of Penetration
Variable — the dropping motion creates changing angles throughout
Targeted Pleasure Zones
Body Contact Points
Step-by-Step Guide
The receiving partner lies on their back at the bed edge with hips near the edge, legs lifted. The penetrating partner stands at the foot of the bed, gripping the receiving partner's ankles firmly — this grip becomes the control mechanism for the entire position.
The penetrating partner lifts the receiving partner's legs and pushes them back toward the head, but instead of holding them static, uses a sudden, controlled dropping motion — like a guillotine blade falling. The legs drop toward the bed, then are lifted again.
The dropping motion changes the angle of penetration dramatically. As the legs drop, the vaginal canal straightens and deepens. As the legs lift back, the angle shifts toward the anterior wall. This alternating angle is the position's signature sensation.
Enter during the upward phase of the drop — as the legs are lifted back, the angle opens for entry. The receiving partner's hamstrings and lower back stretch with each drop, so go only as far as flexibility allows.
The penetrating partner controls the speed and height of the drops — small drops create subtle angle changes; larger drops create dramatic shifts. Start with small drops and increase range gradually based on the receiving partner's flexibility.
The receiving partner signals comfort by relaxing their legs or discomfort by tensing. If the legs are tight, the drops will feel jerky rather than smooth. The receiving partner must relax into the dropping motion for it to work.
To exit, the penetrating partner lowers the receiving partner's legs slowly to the bed. The blood rush from the inverted drops can cause dizziness — have the receiving partner sit up gradually before standing.
Safety & Precautions
Warnings
- ! Requires significant strength and balance from one or both partners.
- ! Keep sessions brief to avoid fatigue.
Modifications
- * Start with smaller drops and increase range gradually.
- * Use a pillow under the receiving partner's hips for support.
Not recommended during pregnancy — the inverted dropping motion is unsafe.
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
- + Very intense and thrilling
- + Deep penetration from the dropping motion
- + Powerful and primal
Cons
- - Can be too intense for some
- - Requires coordination
- - Risk of injury if not careful
Tips
- * Start with small drops and increase gradually
- * Communicate about intensity levels
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 Guillotine position:
Dropping the legs too aggressively
The guillotine drop is a controlled motion, not a free fall. Dropping the legs suddenly and forcefully can strain the receiving partner's hamstrings and lower back. The drop should be deliberate and smooth, with the penetrating partner maintaining grip throughout.
Not supporting the lower back during drops
The repeated leg-lifting and dropping puts strain on the lumbar spine. Without a pillow under the receiving partner's hips, the lower back absorbs all the force from the angle changes. A pillow under the sacrum is essential for safety.
Dropping legs past the receiving partner's flexibility
Each person's hamstring flexibility is different. Pushing the legs past the receiving partner's comfortable range causes pain and potential muscle strain. The drop should stop at the point where the receiving partner feels a stretch, not pain.
Rushing the drops without building sensation
The guillotine position builds pleasure through the alternating angles. Starting with rapid drops skips the building phase and can overwhelm the receiving partner. Start slow, let each angle register, then increase speed.
Variations to Try
Once you've mastered the basic Guillotine, 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.
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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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