MY Kamasutra

Position 01 / 64

The Missionary

A classic position where the man is on top of the woman lying on her back.

Updated 24 July 2026
Abstract editorial illustration of the position The Missionary

The Missionary Position: Complete Guide

The Missionary position is one of the most well-known and practiced sexual positions in the Kamasutra. It involves one partner lying on their back while the other is on top, facing them.

Advantages

  • Increased intimacy through eye contact and possible kisses.
  • Easy to perform, ideal for beginners.
  • Allows for a controlled and adjustable rhythm.
  • A comfortable position for long sessions.

Disadvantages

  • Can become monotonous over time.
  • Not well suited for intense G-spot stimulation.
  • Requires a certain physical effort from the partner on top.

Tips for Variation

  • Place a pillow under the hips of the lying partner to improve the penetration angle.
  • Vary the rhythm and depth of movements to avoid monotony.
  • Incorporate caresses and sweet words to enhance emotional connection.

History

The Missionary position gets its name from the belief that Western missionaries recommended it as the only acceptable way to have intimate relations. However, this position existed long before in different cultures and ancient texts, including the Kamasutra, where it is described under various names and variations.

Understanding the posture

The Missionary is a face-to-face posture that favours closeness and makes range easy to adjust. In this guide, “The Missionary” describes a body arrangement, not a performance target. Body shape, mobility and personal preferences matter more than copying an image exactly.

Step-by-step setup

Settle the reclining or supported partner first, then move face to face. Leave enough room to adjust the angle without placing all your weight on the other person.

  1. Agree who will guide the pace and choose an immediate stop signal.
  2. Enter the posture slowly, without jolting or forcing a joint.
  3. Begin with a small range and adjust only while both partners remain relaxed.
  4. A firm cushion beneath the pelvis, knees or back can reduce strain.

Comfort and communication

Held breath, unusual tension or numbness are cues to slow down, change support or stop. A cushion and a new angle are often more useful than extra effort.

Consent is specific, enthusiastic and reversible at any time. A posture accepted at the start can be stopped without explanation.

  1. A small pelvic shift changes the angle considerably, so adjust by only a few centimetres at a time.

Adapt and simplify

This posture is generally accessible. Still start with a small range and keep support nearby on the first attempt.

To vary the posture without losing control, change one parameter at a time: direction, height, leg opening or support.

Name and context

“The Missionary” is used here as a modern editorial label. Names and drawings vary widely between contemporary books; this guide does not claim that this exact form belongs to a canonical Kamasutra passage.

Sources and context

Modern position names vary between publishers. This collection uses descriptive labels and does not claim to reproduce a canonical catalogue from the Sanskrit text.

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