Is the Sphinx position safe during pregnancy?

The Sphinx position may not be ideal during pregnancy due to none. Consult your healthcare provider for safe alternatives.

What difficulty level is the Sphinx position?

The Sphinx is a hard difficulty position. It requires high flexibility and causes none joint stress.

#321 Adventure Hard

Sphinx

A mysterious, regal pose that demands flexibility and poise.

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

Penetration: Deep

Stimulation: Deep spot

About This Position

The receiving partner lies on their stomach with hips raised, propped up on elbows like the ancient Egyptian sphinx. The penetrating partner enters from behind. This unique angle creates deep penetration and a mysterious, exotic feel.

Best For

Deep penetrationUnique anglesExotic play

Anatomy & Physiology

Muscle Groups Involved

Glutes
Hamstrings
Core
Inner thighs

Angle of Penetration

Slightly downward angle from behind, deep penetration along the anterior wall

Targeted Pleasure Zones

Deep spotAnterior wallAnterior vaginal wall

Body Contact Points

Hands on bed or surfacePelvis to buttocksHands on hips

Step-by-Step Guide

The receiving partner lies on their stomach on a soft surface and props themselves up on their elbows, raising their hips by placing a pillow underneath — this is the sphinx pose.

The receiving partner should feel comfortable in the sphinx pose before attempting entry — if the elbows or lower back strain, add more pillow support under the hips.

The penetrating partner kneels behind and between the receiving partner's legs, aligning their pelvis with the raised hips.

Enter from behind at a slightly downward angle — the raised hip position creates a deep angle that targets the deep spot and anterior wall simultaneously.

The penetrating partner holds the receiving partner's hips for control, using their glutes to thrust while the receiving partner rests their upper body weight on their elbows.

Keep sessions brief as this Hard position demands core strength from the receiving partner. If the elbows tire, the receiving partner can lower to their chest temporarily.

Safety & Precautions

Warnings

! Requires significant strength and balance from one or both partners.
! Keep sessions brief to avoid fatigue.

Modifications

* Start with simpler variations and progress gradually.
* Use a soft surface for safety.

Flexibility: High Joint Stress: None

Not recommended during pregnancy — the position may be uncomfortable or 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:

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 deep penetration angle
+ Unique and exotic feeling
+ Great for G-spot stimulation
+ Visually striking position

Cons

- Requires flexibility and core strength
- Can be tiring to maintain
- Not suitable for longer sessions

Tips

* Use pillows under the hips for support
* The receiving partner should rest when tired

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 Sphinx position:

Not raising the hips enough

Without sufficient hip elevation (from a pillow or blanket), the angle becomes too shallow and the deep spot stimulation is lost. The hips should be noticeably higher than the chest.