The intimate 'Amazon' sex position has more benefits than pleasure, according to sex therapists

If you were curious about the 'Amazon' sex position, allow the pros to give you the inside scoop on the trendy move

Female hands gripping man's back, close up
(Image credit: Getty)

The "Amazon" sex position has reemerged, arguably taking away popularity from the coconut challenge and the belly press in the process. (Apologies to them.) 

Although it seems like FYPs are swarming with new TikTok sex hacks every second, this twist on a classic will stand the test of time, according to the sexperts—plus there are more reasons to give it a go than simply pleasure. Those who are in favor of experimentation need not search any further. 

What is the 'Amazon' sex position?

No, it has nothing to do with the rainforest or the retail giant. This go-to move is essentially a tweak on missionary, a.k.a. the best position for orgasming. (Science says, folks.) 

"The Amazon sex position combines missionary and cowgirl," says certified sex therapist, Aliyah Moore. "It involves the penetrating partner lying on their back with their knees up while the partner being penetrated straddles them with their knees on either side."

See, not quite as challenging as say the twisty pretzel dip position. But the pleasure lies in the simplicity and the control that the partner on top experiences, since it grants easy access to a O-worthy spot. 

"It can be a great position for clitoral stimulation, as the partner on top has more control over the angle and pressure," Moore adds. "It allows for intimate eye contact and kissing between partners, which can help increase emotional connection and intimacy."

And again, science insists that kissing during intimate moments is not just the secret to having really good sex, but it can lead to powerful orgasms. But do be aware that just because it isn't quite as twisty as the pretzel dip doesn't mean it's super simple, either.

"People of any gender can try this position, but it might not work for adventurers of different fitness abilities and flexibility levels," Moore notes. "This position requires a bit more flexibility for the person on the bottom and a heaping amount of stamina for the one on top. This means that executing and maintaining the position may take some determination and patience."

Aliyah Moore headshot
Aliyah Moore, Ph.D.

Aliyah Moore is a certified sex therapist, the resident Sexpert at Sexual Alpha, a relationship expert and a proud Black bi-sexual femme who is passionate about empowering minority voices and the LGBTQ+ community to embrace their sexuality and identity. You can find her work on Refinery29, Scary Mommy, Mindbodygreen and more. 

Why should you try the 'Amazon' sex position?

The Amazon is fun to try and it allows certain players to take the lead and cater their bedroom romp to their liking. 

"The Amazon sex position is a great contender for those that love power play, as the person on top has complete control over how much penetration is received," says Charlotte Johnson, a sex and relationship expert at Mega Pleasure. "The person with the vulva will sit on top, entirely dominant and powerful, resembling the Amazon; a female warrior."

That control will also help women who might've experienced discomfort during penetration to take their time and move at a pace—and depth—that works well for them. 

"This sex position is particularly helpful for those that might suffer from pain during sex, known as dyspareunia, as it’s a lot slower for penetration and isn’t necessarily intended for deep penetration either," Johnson adds. 

Charlotte Johnson

Charlotte Johnson is a sex and relationship expert and marketing manager with the UK brand sexual wellness brand, MegaPleasure. 

Why is the 'Amazon' sex position making a comeback?

"It opens up a conversation for those who might experience discomfort or pain during sex, but want to enjoy it nonetheless, so this added transparency and willingness to open up publicly is allowing sex and relationship experts, therapists, and coaches the ability to really go to town with positions unheard of, but incredibly stimulating," Johnson notes. 

A few quick tips from the experts

There are definitely a few things to note before venturing into the Amazon. For one, talk to your partner and make sure they're on board with giving something new a try. But, you'll also want to know your physical limits. Should you be able to give this a go, don't get discouraged if it takes a little bit of time, as Moore points out, determination and patience are key. However, once comfortably on top, expect to burn some calories—a true win-win. 

"It can be a great workout for the partner on top, as they are using their core muscles to support themselves and move," she adds. 

For more ways to keep things spicy, check out the best sex toys for couples on the market. 

Danielle Valente
Digital News Writer

Need a TV show recommendation? Maybe a few decor tips? Danielle, a digital news writer at Future, has you covered. Her work appears throughout the company’s lifestyle brands, including My Imperfect Life, Real Homes, and woman&home. Mainly, her time is spent at My Imperfect Life, where she’s attuned to the latest entertainment trends and dating advice for Gen Z.


Before her time at Future, Danielle was the editor of Time Out New York Kids, where she got to experience the best of the city from the point of view of its littlest residents. Before that, she was a news editor at Elite Daily. Her work has also appeared in Domino, Chowhound, and amNewYork, to name a few. 


When Danielle’s not writing, you can find her testing out a new recipe, reading a book (suggestions always welcome), or rearranging the furniture in her apartment…again.