The Coital Alignment Technique: A Simple Tweak to Bridge the Orgasm Gap

The Coital Alignment Technique: A Simple Tweak to Bridge the Orgasm Gap

You have likely heard of the orgasm gap: in heterosexual relationships, women statistically experience fewer orgasms than men. Much can and should be done to improve this disparity, beginning with a better understanding of what your partner needs to reliably achieve orgasm. A good starting point is upgrading your go-to bedroom moves. Take the missionary position, for example. You and your partner may favor this classic sex position for the intimacy it provides, but sex therapists suggest one small adjustment can elevate it from good to significantly better.

What Is the Coital Alignment Technique?

The coital alignment technique, commonly known as CAT, is a modified version of missionary sex. In this method, the man positions himself slightly higher, sliding his body up an inch or two so that the base of the penis rubs against the woman's clitoris. This adjustment enhances clitoral stimulation, which is crucial for many women's orgasms.

In a study published in the Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy, women who were unable to orgasm from traditional missionary sex reported a 56 percent increase in orgasm frequency after learning the CAT. Megan Fleming, a New York City-based psychologist and sex therapist, emphasized that CAT is a game-changer because most women require clitoral stimulation to climax, as penetration alone often does not suffice.

Roughly two-thirds of women do not have an orgasm with penetration alone, Fleming told HuffPost. CAT offers direct pressure and rocking and grinding that gives women additional clitoral stimulation.

How to Practice the Coital Alignment Technique

Sadie Allison, a sexologist and author of Ride 'Em Cowgirl! Sex Position Secrets for Better Bucking, provided a step-by-step guide:

1. Begin in the traditional missionary position, with a small pillow under the woman's hips to provide lift and support the pelvis angle.
2. After gently sliding inside, shift your body up several inches, positioning your pelvis directly on top of hers. You should be higher up, with your chest near her shoulders rather than face-to-face.
3. With this new alignment, the penis shaft provides pleasurable friction against the vulva and clitoris with every stroke.

To enhance the experience, Allison recommends focusing on grinding motions. While staying snug and pressed against her, grind and gyrate your pelvis in small circles against her vulva, she said. Try visualizing her clitoris as you press on it, and resist the temptation to lift off and thrust in and out. Just keep your penis snugly inside her, and find the rhythm she needs.

You will know it is working when you feel her holding you tighter and pulling you closer with her legs, Allison added.

Benefits for Both Partners

Lori Buckley, a sex therapist and author of 21 Decisions for Great Sex and A Happy Relationship, highlighted an extra bonus for men. An extra benefit is that this may also help men last longer since they do not experience the same heightened arousal that fast, deep thrusting provides, Buckley said. This creates a win-win situation, enhancing pleasure for both partners.

By incorporating the coital alignment technique, couples can address the orgasm gap effectively, leading to more satisfying and equitable sexual experiences. Now, go get busy and explore this improved approach to intimacy.