"From shallowing to edging, countless sex techniques can enhance your pleasure in the bedroom, but it can feel daunting sorting through what works for you and what doesn’t. As someone who cannot orgasm through penetration alone, I tend to find myself looking into the sex techniques that close that gap. Most recently, I came across the Coital Alignment Technique, and I can’t believe I didn’t know about it sooner. Of course, my partner and I tried it as soon as we could, and it has already transformed my (and, by extension, his) pleasure during sex. Ahead, I’m sharing what the Coital Alignment Technique is, how it works, and how you too can enhance your pleasure by doing it.
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What is the Coital Alignment Technique?
The Coital Alignment Technique (CAT) is a sexual practice that functions a lot like missionary position. Initially coined by sex researcher and psychotherapist Edward Eichel, this practice primarily focuses on clitoral stimulation.
It’s common for vagina owners to have a more challenging time reaching orgasm from penetration alone than those with a penis. According to New York City-based sex therapist and psychologist Megan Fleming, you’ll likely need a little more than some thrusting—no matter how good that may feel. The Coital Alignment Technique helps remedy this issue by using both clitoral and vaginal stimulation at the same time. The penetrating partner slowly rocks the receiving partner to orgasm with direct pressure and grinding motions. This technique shifts the typical thrusting motion into a more aligned, intimacy-focused approach.
While this technique is sometimes criticized for its hetero-normative or penetration-normative focus on penetration to reach orgasm at all, it can be a super helpful addition to the bedroom for those who enjoy simultaneous stimulation. CAT works with a penis, but it can also be done using a strap-on or a dildo—truly, whatever works for your specific partner pairing.
How does the Coital Alignment Technique work?
The most significant advantage of this position is the downward angle, similar to the missionary position. The difference between missionary and CAT is all in the alignment—during CAT, the penetrating partner still lies on top but in a higher position than the standard. This puts the penetrating partner’s chest above the receiving partner’s shoulders and their pubic bone in line with the receiving partner’s clitoris.
As you grind, the shaft of the penis or toy stimulates the clit, leading to heightened pleasure and the possibility of orgasm. Thrusting can stimulate the clit and vulva, too, but grinding or rocking provides a more consistent sensation for the receiving partner. Vulva owners aren’t the only ones who benefit from CAT either, as studies show this technique may help with premature ejaculation in those with a penis. By focusing more on grinding and less on penetration, both partners may experience more pleasure for a longer amount of time.
How to do the Coital Alignment Technique
To assume the CAT position, begin in the traditional missionary position with the receiving partner on their back, with their legs parted. Next, the penetrating partner should insert their penis, toy, or strap-on into the vagina, then shift their body up a few inches to bring their chest in line with the receiving partner’s shoulders instead of face-to-face.
Once in alignment, the penetrating partner can rest their weight on the receiving partner, closing the distance and providing maximum stimulation. Rhythmically grind your hips together and throw in a bit of a rocking motion to put more pressure onto the clitoris. This heightens the pleasure for both parties and allows for a slow build of sensation. Go slow and listen to your bodies. There is no right or wrong way to practice Cotial Alignment, as long as you and your partner are satisfied!
How to make the Coital Alignment Technique even better
Although it sounds good on its own (and it is), there are a few super easy ways to take this steamy technique to the next level. Communicate and experiment with your partner to find what works best for both of you, and don’t forget to have fun!
Start with oral sex or manual stimulation
Before moving right into any kind of penetration, foreplay is a must. Not only will it help you relax and build arousal, but because CAT focuses on clitoral stimulation, foreplay will increase lubrication and make it more comfortable for both partners. Take it slow, and let the anticipation build. Trying something new when it comes to sex can be equally as nerve-wracking as it is exciting, so let yourself enjoy a little warm-up before diving in. If you need some inspiration, check out these oral sex tips!
Incorporate toys and other stimulation methods
Adding toys to any sex position can be a game changer, but that’s especially true when it comes to the Coital Alignment Technique. Try toys that focus on other erogenous zones than just the clit or penis by incorporating nipple clamps, butt plugs, handcuffs, or whatever works for you! You can also go toy-free and get creative by nibbling or licking the neck, ears, and sensitive areas on both the giver and receiver.
Use a pillow
A helpful tip for CAT is to use a small pillow under the receiving partner’s hips to lift and provide the optimum pelvis angle. Every single body is different, and that goes for the angle of the vaginal canal, too. Use the pillow to shift and maintain angles to find what feels best to you and your partner. Deeper penetration can feel fabulous in CAT, but there is also room to experiment with shallow penetration, known as shallowing. Whatever feels best to you is the way to go.
Sydney Cox, Contributing Sex & Relationships Writer
Sydney Cox is a Chicago-based writer and intimacy coordinator who is passionate about exploring the complexities of human connections and teaching readers to advocate for themselves. Sydney’s work has been featured in various publications, where they aim to foster open and honest conversations.