The seven most dangerous sex positions
Mid-romp heart attacks are four times more deadly than those suffered during less intimate physical activity. Sex is a great way to get the pulses racing — but don’t get too carried away.
The reason lies in the couple’s fear of embarrassment at one or both of them being seen naked, which research shows leads to delays in them calling for help.
Only one in eight patients survived a heart attack during lovemaking compared to half of those whose ticker failed during exercise or sport.
Another study rated doggy style the most dangerous sex position as men were at greatest risk of suffering a “broken penis.”
Here, sex expert Samantha Evans assesses the hidden hazards of our favorite positions — the higher the score, the riskier the romp.
She also gives safety tips on how to avoid ending up in the emergency room … or the morgue.
Missionary
HER: “There’s a danger of potential back pain for the woman if her back is not supported, and an uncomfortable entry angle can also be painful.”
HIM: “Risk of a broken penis from over-thrusting.”
SAFETY ADVICE: “Use pillows to raise her hips and support the back.”
Standing Straddle
HER: “The biggest risk for the woman is being dropped if he loses balance.”
HIM: “A real chance of causing lower back strain, and pulled neck and arm muscles, plus damaged manhood if it slips out.”
SAFETY ADVICE: “Make sure the man is strong enough to support his lover’s weight and she should lean against a wall or furniture for support.”
Doggy
HER: “Fast thrusting may cause friction, leading to soreness. It can also put a strain on the woman’s back if he puts his full weight on her.”
HIM: “The man is also susceptible to injury if the action is too fast and his manhood slips out and hits her pubic area.”
SAFETY ADVICE: “Go slow and use a firm mattress.”
Cowgirl
HER: “Beware of bouncing too hard as it can be painful for the woman.”
HIM: “There’s a risk of penis fracture if the woman puts her weight on the man’s exposed member.”
SAFETY ADVICE: “Take time and stay in control to prevent slippage.”
Wheelbarrow
HER: “Beware of face-planting on the floor and also of experiencing lower back pain if the core is not properly engaged.”
HIM: “This athletic position could result in thigh and back strain.”
SAFETY ADVICE: “Place pillows down to soften a fall. The man can also lean on the wall for support.”
Kneeling
HER: “There’s a risk of carpet burns and knee strain for both parties, plus lower back strain for the woman as her partner thrusts.”
HIM: “Penis slippage is the problem here — especially when the couple is mismatched in height. It can cause injury if it hits her pelvis or upper thighs.”
SAFETY ADVICE: “Use cushions under the knees and hold on to each other to get more support.”
Yogi
HER: “Staying in this position for a long period can lead to strain on the lower back and neck and cramp in the calves.”
HIM: “He could suffer friction burns or sore knees.”
SAFETY ADVICE: “Support the back, neck, and knees with pillows, or buy special sex furniture.”
