Full-service escort Lillith Lodge has revealed that missionary is the sex position most commonly requested by her male clients, despite its reputation for being 'lame' or vanilla. The Brisbane-based sex worker told Metro that most clients are 'very basic and standard' in their requests, and that missionary is by far the most popular.
Escort's Experience
'Most clients are very basic and standard in what they want,' Lillith said. 'It's not super common, definitely not a weekly event, to have clients ask for something outside of what I feel is “normal”. It's pretty much just missionary.' She noted that many of her clients are slightly older married men, which may explain the preference. 'It can be very uncomfortable and not enjoyable for my clients to do crazy positions, unless they're a really young guy,' she added. 'Sometimes they'll ask for missionary with my feet up behind my head, (which not everyone is flexible enough to do), but that's about it.'
UK Search Data
According to Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor, missionary was the most-searched-for sex position in the UK in 2025, with 736,900 searches. That is 330,000 more searches than cowgirl, the second most popular position.
Why Men Prefer Missionary
On a Reddit thread about the position, one man wrote: 'Missionary is easily the dirtiest sex position. You can look right in each other's eyes, you can kiss, there's more skin-on-skin contact.' He also highlighted the ability to adjust pace and depth, whisper dirty things, and modify the position to suit preferences. Another commenter shared: 'Missionary is easily my favourite, mostly because it feels best for me. I don't get why people write it off so easily.' A third said: 'My wife and I have been together for 30 years and it's our “go-to” position. When I fantasise, I am almost always imagining having sex in the missionary position.'
Pros and Cons
Former nurse-turned-relationship psychologist Dr Louise Goddard-Crawley previously told Metro that the 'face-to-face nature of the position allows for intimacy… which can help partners feel emotionally connected and secure.' She added that it is one of the most comfortable positions for those with pain or mobility issues, as it doesn't require extensive flexibility or strength, and can be easily modified with pillows or leg adjustments. However, she noted: 'It also may feel more restrictive compared to other positions that allow for greater movement and range of motion. For some, the missionary position may place pressure on joints, especially the lower back and knees, potentially causing discomfort or pain for extended periods.'
According to a Lovehoney survey, missionary was the second most likely sex position to send Brits to A&E, causing harm to more than a third of respondents, from carpet burns to pulled muscles and back injuries. Despite these risks, the article notes that this is the case with most sex positions, and as long as it is not done somewhere especially dangerous, people can embrace their love for the classic position without fear.
