The Corkscrew is a rear-entry position where the receiving partner lies at the edge of the bed. Their upper back stays on the mattress, and their hips and bent legs twist to one side. The penetrating partner stands or kneels at the edge. That gentle twist is where the name comes from, and it changes the angle and how snug the fit feels.
The Corkscrew suits couples who like penetration from the edge of the bed but want something different from classic missionary. It works best when the receiving partner's lower back and hips are happy with a mild rotation. Below you'll find how to set it up, three variations, comfort tweaks and honest signs that it's not for you today.
How to Do the Corkscrew Step by Step
- Set up the receiver. The receiving partner lies on their back with their hips near the edge of the bed. Then they let their knees drop together to one side, so the legs are stacked and the hips turn about halfway onto that side. Shoulders stay mostly flat. The twist should feel like a comfortable stretch, not a wring.
- Add support. Slide a pillow under the lower hip or between the knees so the twist doesn't hang on the spine. A folded towel under the hips can raise them to a better height.
- Position the penetrating partner. They stand (or kneel on a cushion if the bed is low) at the edge, facing the receiver's hips. One hand can rest lightly on the upper hip or thigh for balance. Don't press down, because that adds to the twist.
- Enter slowly. Use plenty of lubricant, and use condoms if you're not fluid-bonded. Start shallow. Because the legs are closed, the fit often feels tighter, so go gently and check in.
- Find a rhythm together. Short, steady strokes usually work better here than long, deep ones. The receiver can guide depth by moving their hips or by putting a hand on their partner's thigh.
Hands are free on both sides. The receiver or the penetrating partner can add clitoral or external stimulation with fingers or a small vibrator, which many people find makes the position far more satisfying.
3 Corkscrew Variations
1. Kneeling Corkscrew
Both partners stay on the bed. The receiver lies twisted as above, and the penetrating partner kneels behind their hips with a pillow under their knees. This helps when the bed height doesn't line up for standing. It's also easier on anyone whose legs tire quickly.
2. Gentle Side-Lying Corkscrew
If the twist bothers the back, the receiver rolls further, so their shoulders follow their hips onto the side. Knees stay bent and stacked. It's softer on the spine and keeps much of the same snug feel, so it's a good option for stiff backs or lazy mornings.
3. Raised-Knee Corkscrew
The receiver draws their top knee a little toward the chest, or rests that foot on the penetrating partner's hip. That changes the angle and opens the hips slightly, which some people find more comfortable and others find more intense. Try small adjustments rather than big ones.
Making It More Comfortable
- Switch sides between sessions (or midway) so one side of the back and hips doesn't do all the work.
- Keep the twist moderate. A deeper rotation doesn't mean better sex, just more strain.
- Kneeling partners: cushion your knees. Standing partners: bend your knees slightly instead of locking them.
- If the fit feels too tight, open the knees a little or add more lube.
When the Corkscrew Isn't for You
- Back, hip or sacroiliac pain. Twisting under load can aggravate these. Try the side-lying variation or skip it. If you're unsure, ask your doctor or physiotherapist.
- Pregnancy. Lying flat on the back gets uncomfortable as pregnancy progresses, and twisting may strain loosened joints. Side-lying positions are usually a better fit. Follow your healthcare provider's advice.
- Pain with deep penetration. Stop, then go shallower or switch positions. Sex shouldn't hurt. Recurring pain is worth raising with a clinician.
- Knee or balance issues for the penetrating partner. Use a lower bed or a supportive cushion, or choose a position where you can lie down.
Moving In and Out of the Corkscrew
The Corkscrew sits neatly between other positions. The receiver can untwist onto their back for edge-of-bed missionary, or roll fully onto their side and let their partner lie behind for spooning. Because the receiver is already at the edge of the bed, it's also an easy place to switch to oral sex. If you do, consider condoms or dental dams if you're not fluid-bonded.
Talking It Through
Before you try it, agree on a simple way to say "slower", "less deep" or "let's change" (words, a tap on the thigh, whatever feels natural). The receiver can't easily see their partner's face in this position, so check in out loud now and then. Either of you can stop at any point, and switching positions is part of good sex, not a failure.
FAQ
Is the Corkscrew only for vaginal sex?
No. It can be used for anal sex too. Go slower, use a generous amount of lubricant made for anal play, and never switch from anal to vaginal without changing the condom or washing up first.
What if our heights don't match at the bed's edge?
Raise the receiver's hips with a firm pillow, or have the penetrating partner kneel on a cushion. Small height fixes usually solve most of the awkwardness.
Can people of any gender use this position?
Yes. Any partner can be the penetrating one using a strap-on, and the twisted, closed-leg setup also works for grinding or toy play without penetration.
