Dangerous Sex Positions: Injuries & How to Stay Safe in Bed

Experts are raising concerns regarding specific sex positions that may carry a higher risk of physical injury. While intimate activity is generally considered safe, data suggests that a significant portion of the population experiences physical harm during sexual encounters. According to a study published by Superdrug online doctor, which utilized data from more than 1,000 people across the US and Europe, more than six in 10 people have sustained an injury during sex.

The range of reported injuries varies from minor abrasions to serious medical emergencies. Possible injuries include tears to the sensitive tissue around the vagina and anus, objects stuck in intimate places, pulled muscles, and carpet burn. More severe cases involve penile fractures. The study found that most injuries happened due to rough sex, accounting for 33 percent of injuries for men and 37 percent for women. Overexertion was also a contributing factor, blamed for 19 percent of male injuries and 10 percent of female injuries.

High-Risk Positions and Injury Statistics

Specific positions were linked to higher rates of injury in the Superdrug findings. For women, doggy style was the most common source of injuries, accounting for 20 percent of cases. Reports associated with this position included vaginal tearing, bruised body parts, and back pain. Missionary position contributed to 16 percent of cases for women, resulting in issues such as a sore vagina, cramped muscles, and sprained body parts.

For men, the missionary position was identified as the most treacherous, making up 19 percent of cases. Doggy style was the second most likely to have painful consequences for men at 16 percent, while standing up came in at number three with eight percent. The cowgirl position was linked to problems for both genders, accounting for eight percent of male injuries and six percent of those reported by women.

One specific injury, the penile fracture, was strongly associated with the reverse cowgirl position. Data indicates that reverse cowgirl was the most likely position to result in a broken penis, with 25 percent of those with penile fractures enjoying lovemaking in this position. When it comes to injuries during sex, the areas most at risk tend to be the most intimate. For men, 38 percent of reported issues involved the penis. Women faced an even greater likelihood of genital injury, with over half of their cases affecting the vaginal area.

Medical Context on Sexual Injuries

Medical professionals note that while sex is supposed to feel good, wrong moves beneath the sheets could leave individuals in pain. According to WebMD, anything from a rug burn to a penile fracture is possible if partners get too rough or move too fast. A penile fracture is distinct from a broken bone because the penis has no bones. Instead, the force ruptures one of the two cylinders inside that fill with blood during an erection. Signs of a penile fracture include a popping sound, swelling, and intense pain. Medical guidance suggests getting help right away if these signs occur.

Other common issues include muscle strains. Any activity where the same movement is repeated over and over, such as thrusting, can strain a muscle. Twisting the body too hard can pull muscles in the belly or back. During an orgasm, thighs naturally tense up, and soreness may be felt afterward. Most pain should let up in a day or two. If it does not, it might indicate a real injury that needs a doctor’s attention. Friction burns from rubbing against a rough surface can leave scrapes and burns on the back, buttocks, and legs. Most friction burns are not serious and will heal on their own in a few days.

Expert Advice on Prevention and Safety

Health experts emphasize taking it slow and knowing limits to avoid common sex injuries. WebMD advises using a lubricant whenever having sex to avoid injuries in the future. If tissue tears occur, doctors can prescribe a pain-relieving cream, and individuals should not put anything inside the vagina or anus until the area heals.

Regarding specific positions, sex expert and educator Scotty Unfamous explained to The Sun that although missionary is one of the most popular positions for sex, it is a common way that intimate injuries occur because it can cause wear and tear to joints.

If you experience discomfort from how you are positioned during missionary sex, try incorporating cushions or a rolled-up towel or blanket to provide some support where you need it most, like under your hips, knees, back or shoulders.

Scotty Unfamous, sex expert and educator

Despite the risks, certain positions remain highly popular. Escort Lilith Lodge told Metro that missionary is the most requested position from her clients. She noted that most clients are very basic and standard in what they want, stating it is not common to have clients ask for something outside of what is considered normal.

Safest Positions and Health Considerations

The Superdrug study identified several positions that appeared safer for both men, and women. The safest sex positions reported were spooning, tabletop sex, and kneeling wheelbarrow. However, it remains unclear if these positions are safer due to mechanics or simply because they are less popular.

Beyond physical positioning, health professionals encourage addressing underlying medical issues that may arise in the bedroom. Lilith Lodge discussed experiences regarding erectile dysfunction, a topic which impacts millions of men but still carries an embarrassing stigma. Lodge noted that this issue is something she frequently encounters with clients and is something she encourages them to get medical advice on rather than ignore or avoid the issue.

awareness of physical limits and open communication can help mitigate risks. While adventurous moves can be fun, some positions have been shown to be more likely to cause injury. Understanding the mechanics of potential injuries, such as muscle strains or tissue tears, allows individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual health and safety.