Scissor
Intertwined legs create a tight, sensations-rich position.
About This Position
Both partners lie on their sides facing each other and intertwine their legs in a scissor-like fashion. This creates a tight fit and allows for shallow, grinding movements that stimulate the clitoris intensely.
Best For
Clitoral Stimulation
Outstanding clitoral stimulation from the grinding motion and leg pressure against the pubic mound.
The primary focus of this position — maximum clitoral contact through grinding.
G-Spot Stimulation
Minimal G-spot stimulation due to the very shallow penetration.
Not designed for internal stimulation; focus is on external pleasure.
Anatomy & Physiology
Muscle Groups Involved
- Inner thighs
- Hip flexors
- Glutes
- Core
Angle of Penetration
Very shallow, grinding motion along the clitoral area
Targeted Pleasure Zones
Body Contact Points
Step-by-Step Guide
Both partners lie on their sides facing each other on a comfortable surface, chest to chest, with legs extended toward each other.
Tip: The scissor position requires face-to-face, full-body contact — this is rated Medium difficulty for the leg coordination.
Intertwine your legs in a scissor-like fashion: the receiving partner's top leg goes over the penetrating partner's hip, while their bottom leg goes under.
Tip: The inner thighs and hip flexors create the scissor lock — the intertwined legs generate the friction that defines this position.
The penetrating partner enters while legs are intertwined. The very shallow penetration means the focus is on external stimulation, not depth.
Tip: Clitoral stimulation is rated 5/5 — the grinding motion and leg pressure against the pubic mound create intense friction.
Rock together in a grinding motion rather than thrusting. The intertwined legs prevent deep thrusting by design — the pressure and friction are the point.
Tip: The clitoris, inner labia, vulva, and pubic mound are all targeted pleasure zones in this position.
Focus on the friction and pressure created by the intertwined legs pressing against the clitoral area. The grinding motion builds intensity gradually.
Tip: Be patient — this position builds arousal slowly but can produce very intense orgasms from the sustained clitoral pressure.
Maintain eye contact and kiss frequently. The face-to-face orientation with legs tangled creates deep emotional and physical intimacy.
Tip: Use hands to caress each other's faces, backs, and hips for additional stimulation points.
Adjust the leg configuration if the angle isn't right — experiment with which leg goes over and under until the clitoral pressure is optimal.
Tip: The core and glutes maintain the side-lying position — shift if either partner's hip becomes sore.
Safety & Precautions
Warnings
- ! Very shallow penetration — this position is about clitoral stimulation, not depth.
- ! Can take practice to figure out the right leg configuration.
Modifications
- * Experiment with different leg positions until you find what works.
- * Use your hands to guide and add additional stimulation.
Safe during pregnancy — gentle, intimate, and low-impact.
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
- + Intense clitoral stimulation
- + Full body contact
- + Very intimate face-to-face position
Cons
- - Very shallow penetration
- - Takes practice to figure out
Tips
- * Focus on grinding rather than thrusting
- * Be patient — this position builds intensity slowly
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 Scissor position:
Trying to thrust instead of grind
The scissor position is mechanically designed for grinding, not thrusting. The intertwined legs physically prevent deep thrusting. Rocking and grinding create the friction that makes this position's clitoral stimulation rated 5/5.
Getting the leg configuration wrong
The wrong leg-over-leg arrangement means the pressure misses the clitoris entirely. Experiment with swapping which leg goes over and under until the pubic bone contact is right.
Expecting deep penetration
This position rates 1/5 for G-spot stimulation because penetration is intentionally very shallow. Couples expecting depth will be disappointed — the position is about external clitoral pleasure, not internal stimulation.
Rushing the buildup
The scissor position builds intensity slowly through sustained grinding. Moving too fast or switching positions too early prevents the slow buildup that leads to intense orgasms.
Variations to Try
Once you've mastered the basic Scissor, 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
Missionary
Face-to-face intimacy with deep emotional connection.
Cowgirl
Take control and set the pace with this empowering position.
Sixty-Nine
Simultaneous oral pleasure in this classic position.
Spooning
Cuddle close with this gentle, sensual side position.
CAT
Coital Alignment Technique for enhanced clitoral stimulation.
Spider
A face-to-face position with tangled legs like a spider.
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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