Reverse missionary is a sexual position in which one partner lies on their back while the other partner straddles them face-down, orienting their body in the opposite direction from traditional missionary. In practice, the partner on top faces their partner's feet rather than their face. The position can be used for penetrative sex (vaginal or anal), oral sex performed on the bottom partner's genitals, or grinding and frottage. It is sometimes confused with reverse cowgirl, but the key difference is that in reverse missionary the top partner is lying or leaning forward rather than sitting upright. The position shifts sensations, angles of penetration, and points of visual focus compared to standard missionary. It is accessible to most body types with minor adjustments and does not require props or equipment, making it a low-barrier variation to try. Reverse missionary appeals to people who want to change the physical sensations of familiar positions, explore different angles of stimulation, or introduce variety into their sexual repertoire without significant complexity.
In practice, the top partner typically begins in a standard straddling position and rotates 180 degrees so they face away from their partner's head, then lowers themselves forward. The bottom partner's experience shifts considerably: instead of eye contact and face-to-face closeness, they see their partner's back and have a different view of their partner's body. The top partner, meanwhile, has direct visual and physical access to the bottom partner's lower body and legs.
For penetrative sex, the angle of entry changes in a way that can stimulate different areas for both partners. The bottom partner often reports that the position creates pressure in a different zone compared to standard missionary, and the top partner typically has more freedom to control depth and rhythm by leaning forward or shifting their weight.
Common variations include the top partner keeping their legs outside the bottom partner's hips for stability, or hooking their knees inward for a tighter fit. Some couples use the position primarily for oral stimulation of the bottom partner while the top partner receives manual or oral attention in return, creating a 69-adjacent dynamic without requiring full symmetrical positioning.
People are drawn to this position for its novelty, its ability to hit unfamiliar angles of stimulation, and the different visual and physical dynamics it creates compared to face-to-face positions.
Communication before and during is important, as the change in angle can create unfamiliar pressure on joints, the spine, or genitals for either partner. The partner on top should move gradually and check in, since the bottom partner has limited leverage to signal discomfort quickly. Penetrative variations should begin slowly to avoid strain or injury from an awkward angle. Partners with knee, hip, or lower-back sensitivities should discuss modifications or use pillows for support. A simple verbal check-in system or a physical tap signal works well for this position.
In reverse cowgirl, the top partner sits upright and faces away from their partner while straddling them. In reverse missionary, the top partner leans forward or lies down along their partner's body facing the opposite direction. The forward lean changes the weight distribution, angle of contact, and range of motion significantly.
Yes. The change in angle typically means different areas of stimulation for the bottom partner, and the top partner has a different range of motion and physical contact points. Many people report that it activates different sensations than standard missionary even though the basic mechanics are similar.
The altered angle in reverse missionary can shift pressure toward different internal areas compared to standard missionary, which some people find more stimulating for the anterior vaginal wall or prostate. Results vary depending on body shape, size, and individual anatomy, so it is worth experimenting to find what works.
Yes. Some couples use the position primarily so the top partner can perform oral sex on the bottom partner's genitals while remaining in a comfortable straddling position. This creates a practical alternative to a traditional 69 arrangement, with different ergonomics that some people find easier to sustain.
People with significant knee, hip, or lower-back issues may find the position uncomfortable, particularly for the top partner who needs to straddle and lean forward. Pillows, rolled towels, or positioning aids can help adjust the angle and reduce strain. It is always worth moving slowly and checking in when trying a new position.
Because eye contact is not available in this position, it helps to establish a verbal check-in habit or a simple physical signal (such as tapping a partner's leg) before starting. Keeping communication verbal and clear throughout is especially useful since reading facial expressions is not an option.
Reviewed by Reviewed by the Jar of Kinks editorial team