Doggy style

[3] In ancient Rome, this practice was known as coitus more ferarum, Latin for "sexual intercourse in the manner of wild beasts.

"[4] Lucretius said it was "generally thought" this manner was best for conception: the proper parts could "take the seeds with chests laid down and loins raised up.

"[5][6] The specific origin of the term doggy style is not known, but is presumably a reference to the initial position assumed by dogs when mating.

Some women may feel vulnerable in this position, as it requires and implies a level of trust and a surrender of control by the receiving to the active partner.

According to the book Sexual Pleasure by Barbara Keesling, many established couples find doggy style relationship-affirming.

Illustration of the doggy style position
Erotic plaque depicting the doggy style intercourse between a man and a woman. From Iraq, Old Babylonian Period, 2000–1500 BCE. Ancient Orient Museum, Istanbul.
Erotic art in Pompeii and Herculaneum depicting heterosexual entrance from rear position