Oral Sex Positions: Get Comfortable Before Your Neck Complains

Going down on someone is a much better use of your evening than discovering how long you can hold your neck at a stupid angle.

A good oral sex position lets the receiving partner relax and the giving partner reach comfortably. Both people need room to move, pause and breathe freely. Start there, then choose the arrangement you actually enjoy.

Let one partner recline on the bed

The receiving partner can lie back with their head and legs comfortably supported. The giving partner chooses a position alongside or between their legs that doesn't require hunching or craning.

Bring your bodies closer before trying to stretch further. A small change in where someone lies can do more than another five minutes of pretending your shoulders feel fine.

A pillow can support an arm or raise a body part slightly, provided it stays stable and comfortable. You don't need a complicated stack. You need to be able to reach without an ache.

Try lying on your sides

Side-lying can let the mattress carry more of your weight. Position yourselves so the person giving oral sex can keep their head comfortable and pull away easily.

This may take a little shuffling, especially on a soft bed. Say what needs moving rather than silently accepting a mouthful of doona.

You can take turns. Both of you receiving attention at once isn't compulsory, and concentrating on one person's pleasure can be a lovely way to spend the time.

Use a seat only if the height works

A supported seated partner may be easier to reach from the bed or another stable position. It depends on the height, your bodies and where the giving partner can comfortably sit.

Kneeling on a hard floor is not a requirement for a blowjob. If it hurts your knees, move. Our seated sex guide covers stable support and getting the height right.

Keep both people able to move freely. A flattering view doesn't compensate for somebody getting stuck in an awkward crouch.

Let the giving partner control their head

Keep their head free and don't put weight on their face or restrict breathing. They need to be able to pull away immediately.

Pause to speak or change position whenever needed. A request to shift your hips isn't criticism of your genitals; it's useful information from the person currently paying them attention.

If anything aches, change it. Persistent pain or symptoms related to an injury need individual advice, not more determination.

Keep barriers handy, then enjoy each other

Oral sex can pass on STIs. Our oral sex protection guide explains condoms, dental dams and testing.

Once you're comfortably positioned, you can pay attention to what each other likes. If you want another option, our less tiring sex positions offer more ways to stay close. Taking a break doesn't make you less keen. Sometimes it means you're sensible enough to want the next ten minutes to feel good too.