The speed bump is a sexual position in which one partner lies flat on their stomach, hips slightly elevated (often with a pillow or folded blanket beneath them), while the other partner lies on top and penetrates or grinds from behind. The name references the shape created by the bottom partner's raised hips, which resemble a road speed bump. The position is a variation of prone-bone or rear-entry sex and can be used for penetrative intercourse, grinding, or manual stimulation. The elevation of the hips changes the angle of entry, which many people find intensifies sensation for both partners. It can be performed with partners of any gender or body type and is adaptable for anal or vaginal penetration. The position encourages a close, full-body contact experience, with the top partner's weight distributed along the bottom partner's back, creating a sense of physical closeness or, for some, a mild sensation of being pressed into the surface beneath them.
In practice, the bottom partner lies face-down on a bed or padded surface, with a pillow, wedge cushion, or folded blanket placed under their pelvis to lift the hips a few inches off the surface. The top partner straddles or lies on top, aligning for rear-entry penetration or grinding contact. The hip elevation is the defining feature: it tilts the pelvis in a way that adjusts the angle of penetration compared to a flat prone position, which can shift where pressure and sensation are felt internally. Many people find this angle more comfortable or more stimulating than standard rear-entry positions. The full-body contact between partners, with the top partner's chest and torso pressed against the bottom partner's back, is a significant draw for people who enjoy physical closeness or a sense of being enveloped. Variations include adjusting the height of the support under the hips for different angles, placing the support under the lower abdomen instead of the pelvis, or using a purpose-built sex furniture wedge for more precise positioning. The position tends to limit thrusting range for the bottom partner, making it more passive for them, which appeals to people who enjoy a receptive dynamic. The top partner has more control over pace and depth, which suits those who prefer a more active role.
Communication before and during is essential, as the bottom partner has limited mobility and cannot easily disengage quickly. Agree on a clear verbal or physical stop signal in advance. The top partner should be mindful of their weight distribution to avoid putting excessive pressure on the bottom partner's lower back or spine. Use a firm but comfortable support under the hips rather than something that creates an unstable surface. Check in regularly, especially if either partner experiences discomfort in the lower back, hips, or knees. People with lower back or hip injuries should approach this position cautiously.
The key difference is the deliberate elevation of the bottom partner's hips using a pillow or wedge. This changes the pelvic tilt and the angle of entry, which shifts where stimulation is felt internally. Standard prone-bone is performed with the bottom partner lying flat, which produces a shallower, flatter angle.
Yes. The height of the support can be adjusted to accommodate different proportions between partners. Couples with a significant size difference often find that a thicker wedge or stacked pillows helps align things comfortably. The position is quite adaptable.
The hip elevation in this position tends to angle penetration in a way that many people report increases contact with the anterior vaginal wall, where the G-spot is located, or the prostate for anal penetration. Results vary depending on individual anatomy and pillow height, so some adjustment is usually needed.
Agreeing on a safeword or a physical signal like tapping the mattress before starting is the most reliable method. The bottom partner has limited mobility, so a pre-agreed signal ensures the top partner responds promptly without confusion.
No special equipment is required. A firm pillow or folded blankets are sufficient for most people. Purpose-built sex furniture wedges (such as the Liberator Wedge) offer more precise and stable elevation if someone wants to explore the position more seriously, but they are not necessary to start.
The line between a position and a kink is subjective. For some people it is simply a practical variation they enjoy for its physical sensations. For others, elements like the passivity of the bottom partner or the full-body weight of the top are part of an erotic dynamic that gives it a kink dimension. It fits both categories depending on the individuals involved.
Reviewed by Reviewed by the Jar of Kinks editorial team