Britain's Bedroom Blunders: How Common Sex Positions Are Landing People in A&E
If you're seeking sexual healing, you might want to temper your enthusiasm, as getting too vigorous could lead to the exact opposite outcome. Millions of Britons have sustained injuries during intimate moments, with a concerning 8% requiring hospital treatment as a direct result. According to a revealing new survey, these accidents aren't happening during exotic Kama Sutra experiments, but during the nation's most familiar and frequently practised positions.
The Risky Favourite: Doggy Style Dangers
In a poll of 2,015 people conducted by adult retailer Lovehoney, the riskiest sexual position was identified as also being the UK's absolute favourite: the classic doggy style. Over half of respondents reported experiencing some form of mishap while on all fours, with wrist injuries and painful friction burns ranking among the most common complaints.
Annabelle Knight, a psychosexual therapist and resident expert for the brand, explains part of the problem: 'The giver needs to be careful where they're placing their weight to avoid straining the receiver's wrists.' Her safety recommendation involves posture adjustment: 'Maintaining an upright posture instead of resting down on the receiver will relieve that pressure. The receiver, instead of resting on their hands, can then rest on their forearms instead.'
Regarding those uncomfortable carpet burns, the straightforward advice is to remain on the bed rather than venturing onto the floor. If floor-based activities are non-negotiable, placing a soft blanket underneath beforehand provides essential protection.
Missionary's Hidden Hazards
In second place for danger, the seemingly vanilla staple missionary position has proven surprisingly perilous. More than a third of survey participants reported suffering harm during this position at some point. The injuries weren't limited to friction burns; pulled muscles, back injuries, and flare-ups of existing spinal problems were frequently cited.
Annabelle suggests a simple intervention: 'Popping a pillow under the lumbar spine of the person on bottom can help on this front. It may also help increase pleasure during penetration, as the hips are tilted upwards.' This minor adjustment can transform a potentially painful experience into a more comfortable and enjoyable one.
Cowgirl Complications and Communication
The third most dangerous position was reverse cowgirl, recently voted as men's most-loved position despite its risks. This pose can lead to serious injuries including torn frenular tissue (connecting the foreskin to the glans) and even penile fractures. Alarmingly, regular cowgirl isn't safe either, with almost one in six Lovehoney survey respondents reporting mishaps in this position.
To ensure your bedroom adventures end with pleasure rather than pain, Annabelle emphasises synchronisation: 'Stay in sync. One mistimed thrust could result in a bent penis. Go slow and communicate with one another.' She also recommends using lubrication to reduce friction and suggests that 'instead of thrusting or bouncing, the person on top should use smaller motions or grinding.'
Location Considerations and Safety Gear
Clinical sexologist Ness Cooper previously highlighted the importance of choosing your intimate location wisely: 'Having sex in new locations can be a great way to spice up your sex life, though locations such as the shower can be tricky when trying to avoid injury. If you want to be extra adventurous with positions during shower sex, be aware that it can be slippery. Checking any fittings you may be leaning against beforehand for stability is advised.'
Investing in proper bedroom equipment can significantly enhance safety during more intense sessions. A sturdy headboard to hold onto or specially-designed sex straps can make a world of difference, providing stability and reducing the risk of awkward falls or strains.
This survey serves as a crucial reminder that even the most familiar sexual activities carry inherent risks. By incorporating expert advice about posture, communication, lubrication, and environmental safety, couples can significantly reduce their chances of joining the unfortunate 8% who find themselves needing medical attention after bedroom mishaps.
