CAT technique (Coital Alignment Technique) — a modification of the missionary position, described in 1988 by American therapist Edward Eichel with a specific purpose: to increase the likelihood of clitoral stimulation during penetrative sex, to overcome the biomechanical limitations of the standard missionary position.
Why was this modification necessary?
The standard missionary position focuses on a vertical, in-and-out motion that does not directly stimulate the clitoris—anatomically, the location of the clitoris often does not align with the trajectory of direct friction in standard positioning. According to the Kinsey Institute and subsequent sexological research, this is one of the main reasons why many women are unable to orgasm from penetration alone, without additional clitoral stimulation.
Equipment mechanics
In the CAT technique, the man's body is positioned higher and further forward in relation to his partner's body than in the standard missionary position — the base of the penis remains in constant contact with the clitoral area. The movement changes from the traditional in-and-out movement to a vertical, grinding movement — the bodies maintain close contact and move up and down against each other, instead of in-and-out cycles.
Step-by-step positioning
1. The receiving partner lies on their back, slightly closer than usual to the lying partner.
2. The penetrating partner positions themselves high and forward, so that their body weight is distributed towards the upper body, not the pelvis.
3. Contact between the base of the penis and the clitoral area should be maintained throughout the process — this is the main principle, not the depth of penetration itself.
4. The movement is done with slow, rhythmic, vertical pressure, instead of rapid in-and-out movements.
Why does this require practice?
The CAT technique requires coordination and often feels unfamiliar to both partners at first—the tempo and angle of movement are different from their usual patterns, requiring several attempts before both partners find a synchronized rhythm. Clinical studies on the technique's effectiveness are mixed—it makes a significant difference for some, but less so for others, depending on individual anatomy.
Common mistakes
- Moving too fast. The effect of the technique lies in the slow, controlled pace — speed destroys the consistency of contact.
- Loss of contact when changing positions. If bodies become distant, clitoral contact also ceases—a conscious effort is required to maintain closeness.
- Lack of patience. Mastering a new technique takes time — the first try is often not the most successful.
Additional variations
Placing a pillow under the pelvis further changes the angle and often makes it easier to maintain contact. The position of both partners' legs also makes a difference—bringing the receiving partner's legs closer together often brings the point of contact closer.
Who might it be particularly useful for?
The CAT technique is a good option for couples looking for an alternative to the standard missionary position, without the added manual stimulation to increase clitoral contact — though, as with any technique, the best results come from experimentation and open feedback with your partner, not by mechanically adhering to one "correct" method.