Sideways Sex Position: Complete Guide to Side-by-Side Intimacy

Curious about the sideways position and why it's become a favorite for comfortable, intimate sex? The sideways sex position (also called side-by-side or lateral position) involves both partners lying on their sides during penetration, offering a relaxed alternative to more athletic poses.

Understanding sideways position variations—from classic spooning to face-to-face arrangements to side lying 69—helps you find options that provide pleasure without physical strain. This guide covers how to get into the sideways position comfortably, explains the benefits for lazy days or tired bodies, and explores variations like 69 sideways and 69 on side for mutual pleasure.

Whether you're seeking low-effort positions for morning sex or comfortable options for extended intimacy, sideways positions deliver satisfaction with minimal physical demands.

Who Benefits from Sideways Sex Positions

Side-by-side positions work especially well for:

• Couples wanting relaxed, comfortable sex — No strain on hands, knees, backs, or necks
• Tired partners or lazy mornings — Minimal energy required from both people
• Pregnant individuals — Side-lying positions recommended during pregnancy
• People with joint pain or mobility issues — Reduces pressure on problematic areas
• Those seeking emotional intimacy — Face-to-face variations allow kissing and eye contact
• Couples wanting sustainable positions — Can maintain for extended periods without fatigue
• Partners exploring mutual pleasure — 69 sideways offers oral pleasure for both

These positions require almost no flexibility or athleticism, making them accessible to nearly all bodies.

What Is the Sideways Sex Position?

Basic Position Description

The sideways position is any sexual position where both partners lie on their sides during intimate activity. The most common variation resembles spooning but with penetration.

Classic sideways setup:

• Both partners lie on same side
• Facing same direction (big spoon/little spoon)
• Penetrating partner behind receiving partner
• Bodies nestled together
• Penetration from behind at horizontal angle

According to information on sex positions, side-lying positions offer comfort advantages that make them particularly suitable for extended intimacy sessions.

The sideways position differs from most others because neither partner supports weight on arms, knees, or other pressure points—everything is supported by the bed surface.

Why Side-by-Side Positions Are Popular

Key advantages:

Physical comfort: No weight on hands, knees, or other joints

Sustainability: Can maintain for long periods without tiring

Intimacy: Close body contact throughout; face-to-face variations allow kissing

Accessibility: Works for all fitness levels, ages, body types

Versatility: Multiple variations from passive spooning to active thrusting

Pregnancy-safe: Recommended position during pregnancy (especially left side)

Morning-friendly: Perfect for lazy, low-energy intimate mornings

Quiet motion: Less bed movement than athletic positions

Common Variations Overview

Spooning (classic sideways):

• Both face same direction
• Penetration from behind
• Most common and easiest

Face-to-face sideways:

• Partners facing each other
• Legs intertwined
• More intimate eye contact

Scissoring position:

• Bodies form X or scissor shape
• Penetration at perpendicular angle
• Different sensation than parallel spooning

Side lying 69:

• Both on sides facing opposite directions
• Simultaneous oral pleasure
• More comfortable than traditional 69

We'll explore each variation in detail throughout this guide.

Classic Sideways Position (Spooning)

Step-by-Step Setup

Getting into spooning position:

1. Both partners lie on same side (typically left side for pregnancy; either side otherwise)
2. Receiving partner in front (little spoon position)
3. Penetrating partner behind (big spoon)
4. Receiving partner pulls top knee toward chest — Opens up access
5. Penetrating partner aligns hips with receiver's angle
6. Gentle penetration from behind at horizontal angle
7. Receiving partner adjusts knee angle for depth comfort
8. Both relax completely into position

No complicated technique required—this position is all about comfort and ease.

Movement and Technique

Motion options in sideways position:

Gentle grinding:

• Penetrating partner rocks hips forward and back
• Shallow, sustained movement
• Maintains deep contact
• Least physically demanding

Hip thrusting:

• Pulling slightly out and pushing back in
• Can be slow and sensual or faster
• More intense than grinding
• Moderate effort required

Receiving partner participation:

• Push back against penetrating partner
• Rock hips in rhythm
• Control depth by angle adjustment
• Creates collaborative motion

Combination approach:

• Start with grinding, add occasional thrusts
• Vary rhythm and depth
• Build intensity gradually
• Most satisfying for many couples

The horizontal angle means penetration feels different from vertical positions like missionary or doggy—explore to find what works best.

Benefits of Classic Spooning

Why this variation works:

Maximum comfort: Both partners completely relaxed and supported

Full-body contact: Entire front/back connection creates intimacy

Easy clitoral access: Penetrating partner's hand reaches around easily

Whispering and kissing: Receiver's ear and neck easily accessible

Low physical demand: No muscle strain or fatigue

Temperature: Great for cold weather—maximum warmth from body contact

Sleepy compatibility: Can transition from cuddling to sex naturally

This is often called the "lazy person's position" but delivers genuine pleasure despite minimal effort.

Face-to-Face Sideways Position

How to Position for Face-to-Face

Setting up facing variation:

1. Both lie on sides facing each other
2. Receiving partner lifts top leg over partner's hip
3. Penetrating partner positions between legs
4. Receiving partner's top leg rests on penetrating partner's hip
5. Both scoot close so hips align
6. Penetration occurs at slight upward angle
7. Arms embrace for stability and intimacy
8. Find comfortable leg positioning through adjustment

This requires slightly more flexibility than spooning but still qualifies as easy/comfortable.

Intimacy Advantages

Why choose face-to-face:

Eye contact throughout: Maintains visual connection during intimacy

Kissing access: Easy to kiss throughout session

Mutual touching: Both partners' hands free for caressing

Emotional connection: Face-to-face enhances bonding and vulnerability

Communication: Easy to read partner's expressions and responses

Equality: Neither partner "behind" or "in front"—more balanced dynamic

Breast access: Penetrating partner can easily stimulate breasts

For couples prioritizing emotional intimacy over athletic performance, face-to-face sideways delivers.

Common Adjustments

Modifications for comfort:

Pillow under head: Prevents neck strain from side-lying

Top leg support: Place pillow under receiving partner's raised leg if gets tired

Angle adjustment: Scoot hips forward or back to change penetration angle

Lower leg positioning: Bottom leg can bend back or stay straight—experiment

Hand placement: Under partner's head, on hips, embracing back—find what's stable

This position requires communication and adjustment but becomes natural with practice.

Side Lying 69 Position

Understanding 69 Sideways

The side lying 69 (also called 69 on side) is a variation of the traditional 69 oral sex position done while both partners lie on their sides.

Basic setup:

• Partners lie on sides
• Heads at opposite ends (head-to-toe)
• Bodies form parallel lines
• Each person's mouth accesses partner's genitals
• Simultaneous oral stimulation possible

Advantages over traditional 69:

No neck strain — Heads supported by bed instead of holding up
No one underneath — Neither partner supports other's weight
More sustainable — Can maintain much longer without discomfort
Equal access — Both partners have good angle
Relaxed — Can focus on giving and receiving without muscle fatigue

How to Get Into 69 Sideways

Step-by-step arrangement:

1. Both partners lie on same side (both right or both left)
2. Position heads at opposite ends — Your head near their hips, vice versa
3. Bottom person's bottom leg stays straight for stability
4. Top legs can bend for better access and comfort
5. Use bottom arm to support head or reach around partner
6. Top arm adjusts partner's position or provides stimulation
7. Scoot close so genitals easily accessible
8. Begin oral stimulation simultaneously or take turns

Communication during setup is essential—adjust positions until both people comfortable.

Variations and Techniques

69 sideways options:

Simultaneous stimulation:

• Both give oral pleasure at same time
• Requires ability to focus while receiving
• Very intense experience
• Some find it overwhelming

Taking turns:

• One gives while other receives, then switch
• Easier to focus and do better job
• Still maintains position benefits
• Less overwhelming option

One active, one passive:

• One person primarily gives
• Other receives but may gently reciprocate
• Good for sensitivity differences
• More sustainable approach

Adding hands:

• Incorporate manual stimulation with oral
• Use hands on other body parts
• Creates fuller-body experience

The 69 on side position removes the discomfort that makes traditional 69 difficult to maintain, making mutual oral pleasure much more accessible.

Sideways Position Variations

Scissors (X Position)

What makes scissors different:

Instead of parallel bodies, scissors creates an X or cross formation:

1. Receiving partner lies on back or side
2. Penetrating partner lies on side perpendicular to receiver
3. Receiving partner's legs rest over penetrating partner's hip
4. Creates sideways perpendicular penetration angle
5. Different sensation from parallel spooning

Benefits:

• Unique angle hits different internal spots
• Visual variety from straight spooning
• Allows deeper penetration than some side positions
• Penetrating partner can grip receiver's legs

Drawbacks:

• Less body contact than spooning
• Slightly more physically demanding
• Requires more positioning adjustment

Modified Spoon with Leg Up

Enhanced access variation:

1. Start in classic spooning position
2. Receiving partner lifts top leg toward chest or ceiling
3. Penetrating partner holds leg up or receiver supports it
4. Creates deeper access than standard spooning
5. Allows more vigorous thrusting if desired

When to use:

• Want deeper sensations than basic spooning
• Receiver is flexible enough for leg lift
• Seeking more active sideways experience

T-Square Position

Perpendicular sideways arrangement:

1. Receiving partner on back with legs together
2. Penetrating partner on side perpendicular to receiver
3. Receiver's legs over penetrating partner's hip
4. Creates T or L shape when viewed from above
5. Sideways penetration with receiver mostly on back

Hybrid benefits:

• Easier than scissors for some bodies
• Receiving partner more relaxed than full side position
• Different angle than straight spooning or missionary

Enhancing Sideways Positions With Stimulation

Clitoral Access in Sideways Positions

Adding external stimulation:

In classic spooning:

• Penetrating partner reaches around to stimulate clitoris
• Easy, natural hand position
• Can maintain throughout session
• Receiving partner can guide hand

In face-to-face:

• Either partner can reach down between bodies
• Small bullet vibrator fits easily
• Eye contact while providing pleasure
• Remote controlled vibrators work hands-free

General tips:

• More clitoral stimulation needed than athletic positions (less natural friction)
• Use plenty of lubricant on genitals and hands
• Communicate about pressure and location

Using Vibrators in Sideways Positions

Toy integration:

Bullet vibrators:

• Fit between bodies in any sideways position
• Penetrating partner or receiver can hold
• Bullet vibrators provide consistent buzz
• Hands-free when wedged correctly

Wand vibrators:

• More powerful stimulation
• Receiving partner usually holds
• Works better in face-to-face than spooning
• Adjustable intensity throughout

Cock rings with vibration:

• Worn by penetrating partner
• Vibrations transfer to clitoral area during contact
• Benefits both partners
• Hands-free solution

Remote controlled options:

• Partner controls vibrator intensity
• Works in any sideways variation
• Adds element of surprise and play
• Great for lazy positions where hands tire

Toys significantly enhance sideways positions, which naturally provide less friction than more active alternatives.

Other Stimulation Ideas

Enhancing pleasure:

Temperature play beforehand:

• Warming massage before position
• Cool sensations for contrast
• Different lubes with warming/cooling effects

Sensory enhancement:

• Soft music matching rhythm
• Blindfolds for receiver
• Dirty talk and whispered encouragement
• Breath play on neck and ears

Full body touch:

• Caressing accessible areas (breasts, thighs, stomach)
• Hair stroking and scalp massage
• Back scratching (in spooning)
• Simultaneous multiple touch points

Sideways positions free up hands and energy for these extras that athletic positions don't allow.

Comfort and Safety Considerations

Optimizing Physical Comfort

Making sideways positions more comfortable:

Pillow placement:

• Under both heads for neck support
• Between knees if bottom leg gets pressure
• Under receiving partner's top leg if gets tired
• Under hips for slight elevation if desired

Bed surface matters:

• Softer mattresses more comfortable
• Too-firm surfaces cause hip pressure
• Consider mattress topper for regular side-sex

Temperature regulation:

• Spooning creates significant body heat
• Use lighter covers or none
• Face-to-face allows more cooling air
• Have water nearby

Arm positioning:

• Bottom arm often problematic (goes numb)
• Try extending over head, under pillow, or bent back
• Switch sides if arm falls asleep
• Take breaks to shake out arms

When Sideways Positions Work Best

Ideal scenarios:

Pregnancy: Side-lying positions (especially left side) recommended during pregnancy for circulation

Morning sex: Perfect for lazy, sleepy intimacy without full wake-up energy

Injury recovery: When other positions strain healing areas

Tired evenings: After long days when athletic positions feel like work

Longer sessions: Sustainability allows extended intimacy without breaks

Cuddling transition: Natural evolution from non-sexual spooning

Cold weather: Maximum body warmth and coziness

Position Limitations to Understand

Realistic expectations:

Limited thrusting intensity — Not ideal for vigorous, athletic sex
Less deep penetration than some positions
Can feel routine if overused
Bottom arm discomfort eventual in longer sessions
Limited visual excitement compared to face-to-face upright positions

Perfect for: Comfort, sustainability, intimacy, lazy days, gentle sessions
Not ideal for: High-energy, athletic, very deep penetration desires

Sideways Position Tips for Maximum Pleasure

Communication and Adjustment

Finding what works:

Before starting: "Want to try a comfortable sideways position?"
"Let's do something relaxed today."
"Which side do you prefer?"

During positioning: "How's this angle?"
"Should I move closer/farther?"
"Is your arm comfortable?"
"Want me to lift your leg more?"

During intimacy: "Does this depth feel good?"
"Want me to add clitoral stimulation?"
"Should I go slower or faster?"
"Need to adjust anything?"

After: "How did that feel compared to [other position]?"
"What would make it even better next time?"

Regular communication transforms good sideways positions into great ones.

Building a Rhythm

Movement techniques:

Slow and steady:

• Gentle, consistent hip motion
• Focuses on grinding over thrusting
• Most sustainable approach
• Good for emotional intimacy

Varied pace:

• Alternate between slow and faster
• Prevents monotony
• Builds arousal through variety
• More engaging throughout

Partner participation:

• Receiving partner pushes back
• Creates collaborative rhythm
• Increases engagement and pleasure
• Prevents passivity

Breath synchronization:

• Match breathing patterns
• Deepens connection
• Creates meditative quality
• Enhances presence

Combining With Other Positions

Integration approach:

Start sideways:

• Begin with comfortable spooning
• Build arousal without pressure
• Transition to more active position when energy increases

End sideways:

• Finish athletic session with comfortable position
• Allows longer overall intimacy time
• Perfect for post-orgasm intimacy
• Prevents abrupt disconnection

Sideways breaks:

• Switch to sideways when tired during longer sessions
• Allows recovery without full stop
• Maintains arousal and connection
• Returns to active positions after rest

Sideways positions work excellently as part of varied sessions rather than only option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sideways sex position?

The sideways sex position (also called side-by-side or lateral position) involves both partners lying on their sides during penetration. The most common version resembles spooning, where both partners face the same direction with the penetrating partner behind. Variations include face-to-face sideways (partners facing each other with legs intertwined) and scissor positions (bodies perpendicular forming an X).

Is the sideways position good for lazy sex?

Yes, the sideways position is excellent for lazy or low-energy sex. Both partners lie completely relaxed with full body support from the bed, requiring minimal muscle engagement compared to positions like doggy style, cowgirl, or missionary. Neither person supports weight on hands, knees, or arms, making it sustainable for long periods without fatigue.

How do you do 69 sideways?

To perform 69 sideways (also called 69 on side or side lying 69), both partners lie on the same side with heads at opposite ends of each other's bodies (head-to-toe arrangement). Position yourselves so each person's mouth can access their partner's genitals. The bottom leg stays straight for stability while top legs can bend for better access.

Can you use sex toys with sideways positions?

Yes, sideways positions work excellently with sex toys. Small bullet vibrators fit easily between bodies for clitoral stimulation during penetration. The penetrating partner can reach around to hold a wand vibrator against the receiver's clitoris in spooning positions. Vibrating cock rings benefit both partners hands-free. Remote-controlled vibrators allow the penetrating partner to control intensity without manual effort.

Is the sideways position safe during pregnancy?

Yes, sideways positions are actually recommended during pregnancy, especially side-lying on the left side which optimizes blood flow to the fetus. These positions avoid pressure on the belly that missionary creates and don't require balance or support that other positions demand. The receiving partner controls depth easily and can adjust positioning for maximum comfort as pregnancy progresses.

What's the difference between spooning and sideways position?

"Spooning" and "sideways position" are often used interchangeably, though sideways position is the broader term encompassing all side-lying sexual positions, while spooning specifically refers to the variation where both partners face the same direction with the penetrating partner behind (like cuddling spoons). Other sideways positions include face-to-face variations, scissor positions, and perpendicular arrangements.

Conclusion

The sideways sex position offers comfortable, sustainable intimacy without the physical demands of more athletic alternatives, making it ideal for lazy mornings, tired evenings, pregnancy, or anyone seeking relaxed pleasure.

By exploring variations from classic spooning to face-to-face arrangements to side lying 69, couples discover side-by-side options that provide genuine satisfaction with minimal effort. Enhance your favorite sideways positions with sex toys for couples designed for hands-free stimulation during relaxed intimacy.