Speed Bump Position: How to Do It + 4 Variations

The Speed Bump is a rear-entry position where the receiving partner lies face down on the bed with a firm pillow or wedge under their hips. That pillow is the "speed bump". It tilts the pelvis up, so the penetrating partner can enter from behind while lying on top or kneeling between their legs. Think of it as a lazier, cosier relative of doggy style. The person underneath doesn't have to hold themselves up on hands and knees, and the raised hips change the angle in a way many people enjoy. It works for vaginal or anal sex, with a penis or a strap-on, and for any couple where one person likes to relax into the mattress.

How to Do the Speed Bump Position

• Set up the bump. Fold a firm pillow in half or use a sex wedge. Put a towel over it if you want to protect it from lube.
• Get comfortable on top of it. The receiving partner lies on their stomach with the pillow under the hip bones, not the belly, so the bottom tilts slightly up. Arms can be folded under the head or stretched forward. Turn the head to whichever side is easier on the neck.
• Find your spot behind. The penetrating partner kneels between the receiver's legs or lies along their back, taking their own weight on the forearms or hands. Nobody should be pinned flat under a full body weight unless they've asked for that.
• Enter slowly. Use plenty of lube and let the receiving partner guide the depth. Because the angle is steeper than in missionary, it can feel deeper than you expect.
• Find a rhythm together. Short, slow strokes or a gentle rocking motion usually work better here than long, hard thrusts. The receiver can push their hips back into the pillow to control the pace.

Why People Like It

The raised pelvis can direct pressure toward the front wall of the vagina, which some people find especially pleasurable. Lying flat also lets the receiver fully relax, and the pillow gives them something to grind against. Clitoral contact still varies a lot from body to body. Many people need extra clitoral stimulation to orgasm in any position, and that's completely normal. For the partner on top, the view of the back and bottom is part of the appeal, and if you enjoy a little voyeurism together, say so.

4 Speed Bump Variations

1. Slow Grind

The partner on top lowers their chest close to the receiver's back and swaps thrusting for small circular or rocking movements, staying deep. It's intimate, quiet and gentle on tired knees.

2. Legs Together

The receiving partner keeps their legs straight and close together, and the partner on top straddles their thighs. The closed legs create a snugger fit and more friction. Go slowly at first, since the tighter angle can make deep penetration less comfortable.

3. Higher Bump

Stack a second pillow or swap to a taller wedge to lift the hips more. The penetrating partner can then kneel upright instead of lying down. Small height changes make a big difference, so adjust one step at a time.

4. Add a Toy

Slide a small vibrator between the pillow and the receiver's body, positioned against the clitoris or vulva. Every hip movement then adds stimulation, and nobody has to free up a hand. A wearable couples' toy works too.

Comfort Tips

• Firm beats fluffy. A soft pillow collapses and the angle disappears. A foam wedge or a folded firm cushion holds its shape.
• If the lower back starts to ache, the bump is probably too high. Lower it or move it slightly toward the thighs.
• Switch the head side now and then, or rest the forehead on folded arms to keep the neck neutral.
• For anal sex, use plenty of lube and go slowly. Put on a fresh condom before switching to vaginal sex to avoid bacterial infections.
• Condoms and other barriers fit this position like any other. Use them if you're not fluid-bonded or are avoiding pregnancy.

When to Skip It

• Pregnancy: lying face down puts pressure on the belly, so it usually becomes uncomfortable or unsuitable as pregnancy progresses. Side-lying spooning is often a better rear-entry option. Check with your midwife or doctor if you're unsure.
• Back, neck or hip problems: the arched lower back and turned head can aggravate existing pain. Try a lower bump, or choose a position where you lie on your back or side.
• Breathing or weight concerns: if being pressed into the mattress feels restrictive, the top partner should stay up on their knees or hands.
• Pain during penetration: stop. Sharp or deep pain isn't something to push through. Adjust the angle, use more lube, or change positions, and see a doctor if it keeps happening.

Communication and Consent

You can't see each other's faces much in this position, so words do more of the work. Agree beforehand on how the person underneath will signal "slower", "pause" or "stop". A tap on the hand or thigh works when talking feels awkward. The partner on top should check in during the first few strokes and whenever the depth or pace changes. Some people also feel more vulnerable lying face down, so it's worth asking whether it feels good emotionally, not just physically. A hand on the back, a kiss on the shoulder or talking to each other helps make up for the missing eye contact.

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