Sex is meant to be an enjoyable and intimate experience, but certain positions and styles can lead to painful injuries if not approached with caution. While spontaneity and passion are great, safety should always be a priority. Here are some sex styles to avoid—or at least approach carefully—to prevent harm to your partner.
1. The “Pogo Stick” (Standing Thrusting Positions)
Standing sex positions, especially those where one partner is lifted or bouncing up and down, can be risky. If balance is lost or the person being held slips, it could result in a painful fall, muscle strain, or even a severe impact injury. Unless you both have the strength and stability for it, it’s best to keep acrobatics to a minimum.
Injury Risks:
- Falls and fractures
- Back or neck strain
- Slipped discs from improper lifting
2. “The Piledriver” (Extreme Angles with Body Weight Pressure)
This position involves one partner being inverted, with their legs over their head while the other partner thrusts downward. The extreme angle can put a dangerous amount of pressure on the neck and spine, leading to sprains or even spinal injuries.
Injury Risks:
- Neck strain or whiplash
- Loss of blood flow to the brain (dizziness, fainting)
- Back injuries from improper positioning
3. Reverse Cowgirl (With Aggressive Movements)
Reverse cowgirl—where one partner straddles the other facing away—is exciting but also responsible for many penile fractures. If the partner on top comes down at the wrong angle, it can result in a painful and serious injury that often requires surgery.
Injury Risks:
- Penile fracture (yes, it’s real!)
- Torn ligaments in the hips or thighs
- Abrasions from rough movements
4. Doggy Style (When Too Rough or Forced at the Wrong Angle)
While doggy style is a favorite for many couples, thrusting too hard or at the wrong angle can lead to injuries. This position is particularly notorious for causing deep pelvic bruising in women and penile injuries in men.
Injury Risks:
- Pelvic or lower back pain
- Vaginal or anal tearing (if not properly lubricated)
- Bruising from impact
5. The “Overzealous Oral” (Deep Throat Risks)
Oral sex can be pleasurable, but aggressive deep-throating or throat penetration can lead to gagging, choking, or even throat injuries. A lack of control or forcing too much can result in painful soft tissue damage.
Injury Risks:
- Throat bruising or swelling
- Choking hazards
- Torn soft tissue in the mouth or lips
6. Shower Sex (Slippery and Unstable Surfaces)
Sex in the shower might seem romantic, but wet, slippery surfaces increase the risk of falling. Even a minor slip can lead to serious bruises, concussions, or broken bones.
Injury Risks:
- Slips and falls
- Head trauma from hitting hard surfaces
- Sprained wrists or ankles from trying to break a fall
7. Too Many Sex Toys at Once (Overstimulation or Insertion Injuries)
Experimentation is great, but inserting large or multiple objects at once can lead to painful injuries. Overstretching, tearing, or even foreign object retention are serious risks when using sex toys improperly.
Injury Risks:
- Tearing of vaginal or anal tissues
- Internal bleeding from improper use
- Emergency room visits due to stuck objects
Final Thoughts: Play Safe, Play Smart
Sex should be adventurous, but it should also be safe. To minimize injury risks:
- Communicate with your partner about comfort levels
- Avoid rough or aggressive movements unless both partners are prepared
- Use proper lubrication to prevent friction injuries
- Be mindful of angles, especially in positions that put stress on joints or sensitive areas
- If something feels painful, stop immediately
By staying aware and making safety a priority, you can keep sex both thrilling and injury-free.