Relationships2 min(s) read
Published 16:31 12 May 2026 GMT
This 2026 study revealed the 'worst sex position' - as voted for by women
A new survey has shed light on the sex positions women enjoy the most, and the ones many would rather avoid altogether.
Researchers analysed responses from 2,590 women across the UK and the US, with the findings suggesting that emotional connection, comfort, and communication play a much bigger role in sexual satisfaction than flashy or physically demanding moves often seen in pornography.
“There is a big difference between what people see in porn and what actually feels good in bed,” a spokesperson for Seduced AI explained.
“A lot of people try to recreate it and feel like they’re doing something wrong. Trying out new kinks is always exciting, but the pleasure and comfort of all people involved should be a priority.”
What the study found
According to the January 2026 report, women were far more likely to enjoy partnered sex when eye contact and emotional intimacy were involved, rather than focusing solely on physical pleasure and superficial factors.
The spokesperson added: “Positions that require flexibility, stamina, or specific body types shouldn't be the standard everyone tries to match. Different bodies have different comfort zones, and that's completely normal.”
They also stressed the importance of communication between partners, saying: “When both people feel heard and comfortable enough to adjust what isn't working, sex life and romantic life both get better. That's the difference between performing for an imaginary audience and actually enjoying what you’re doing here and now.”
The least popular sex positions among women
The survey found reverse cowgirl was the least popular option overall, with 31 per cent of respondents naming it as their most disliked position.
Many of the women asked said the position caused physical discomfort, particularly due to pressure on the knees and lower back. Others said they disliked the lack of eye contact and emotional closeness during the act.
Coming in second was the 69 position, which 29 per cent of women ranked among their least favourites.
Respondents said the position often felt too physically awkward and made it difficult to focus on their own enjoyment because attention was split between giving and receiving pleasure at the same time.
Many participants reported that this divided focus reduced overall satisfaction and left them feeling frustrated rather than relaxed.
In third place, 16 per cent of respondents said they disliked being on top.
Several women explained they felt self-conscious in the position, particularly because of the angle their partner views them from. Others said it was physically exhausting and felt “more work than pleasure,” with leg fatigue commonly mentioned as a reason for avoiding it.