Sixty-Nine
Simultaneous oral pleasure in this classic position.
About This Position
Both partners pleasure each other orally at the same time, with one partner on top facing the other's feet. This position allows for reciprocal pleasure and can be adjusted for comfort.
Best For
Clitoral Stimulation
Direct and intense clitoral stimulation from the partner's mouth and tongue.
Full access to the clitoris through oral stimulation.
G-Spot Stimulation
Minimal G-spot stimulation as this is primarily an oral position.
G-spot can be stimulated with fingers during oral play.
Anatomy & Physiology
Muscle Groups Involved
- Core
- Hip flexors
- Neck
- Arms (for support)
Angle of Penetration
Shallow — primarily an oral position with minimal penetration
Targeted Pleasure Zones
Body Contact Points
Step-by-Step Guide
Both partners lie on their sides facing opposite directions on a comfortable surface, with each partner's head positioned near the other's hips.
Tip: The key is alignment — each mouth should naturally reach the other's genitals without straining.
The partner on top positions their body over the bottom partner, supporting their weight on their arms and knees. The core muscles (rated as involved) help maintain this position.
Tip: Hip flexors and arms support the top partner's weight — avoid putting pressure on the bottom partner.
Align mouths with genitals: the bottom partner's mouth reaches the top partner's clitoris/glans, while the top partner's mouth reaches the bottom partner's genitals.
Tip: This is an oral-only position (shallow penetration) — clitoral stimulation is rated 5/5 via direct oral contact.
Begin oral stimulation simultaneously. The neck and jaw muscles work to maintain position — take breaks if either area strains.
Tip: Communicate about pressure, speed, and rhythm before and during — what feels good for giving may differ from receiving.
Use hands to complement oral stimulation — one hand can hold the partner's hip or buttock for stability while the other stimulates.
Tip: Inner thighs and the perineum are also targeted pleasure zones accessible with hands during oral play.
Adjust positioning frequently for comfort. The neck and back can strain if held too long — shift positions or take breaks.
Tip: Moderate flexibility is required; pillows under the upper partner's hips can reduce strain.
Focus on giving pleasure while receiving — it takes practice to maintain both simultaneously. Start by taking turns if simultaneous stimulation is too distracting.
Tip: Many couples find that alternating focus (giving for a few minutes, then receiving) produces better results than true simultaneity.
Safety & Precautions
Warnings
- ! Can be difficult to focus on giving pleasure while receiving stimulation.
- ! May cause neck or back strain if held for too long.
Modifications
- * Take turns focusing on giving pleasure if doing both simultaneously is too distracting.
- * Use pillows to support the upper partner's weight.
Not recommended during pregnancy due to positioning and pressure on the abdomen.
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
- + Simultaneous pleasure for both partners
- + Mutual oral stimulation
- + Can be very intense
Cons
- - Can be difficult to focus on giving and receiving
- - May be uncomfortable in some variations
Tips
- * Communicate about what feels good
- * Take turns focusing on giving pleasure
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 Sixty-Nine position:
Trying to focus equally on giving and receiving
Most people find it difficult to give good oral sex while receiving intense stimulation. Taking turns or alternating focus produces more pleasure for both partners than trying to do both at once.
Neglecting neck and back comfort
The neck, arms, and core are under strain supporting the top partner's weight. Not taking breaks or using pillows leads to pain that kills the mood. Support the top partner with pillows under their hips.
Poor mouth-to-genital alignment
If the mouths are not properly aligned with the genitals, both partners strain to reach each other. Take time to get the body positioning right before starting stimulation.
Ignoring non-genital stimulation zones
The inner thighs, perineum, and labia are all targeted pleasure zones in this position. Focusing only on the clitoris/glans misses the full range of sensations available.
Variations to Try
Once you've mastered the basic Sixty-Nine, 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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