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Physical effort: Low Self-exploration

Hip Swing: kneeling solo masturbation by grinding against a pillow

The Hip Swing is a hands-free female masturbation technique: you kneel astride a firm cushion or pillow and rock your hips so the vulva and clitoris rub against it. You set the rhythm and the pressure the whole time.

Also known as: Pillow humping · Pillow grinding · Pelvic masturbation

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Illustration of Hip Swing: Kneeling astride a firm pillow, with your pelvis resting on it and your hands on the mattress, you rock your hips back and forth so the vulva and clitoris rub a
Anatomy and biomechanics

Kneel on the bed with a firm pillow folded lengthwise between your thighs. Your knees rest on the mattress on either side, legs open and bent, and you lower your buttocks until your pelvis rests on the pillow. Keep your torso upright or leaning slightly forward, with your hands on the mattress or on the far end of the pillow. From there, your hips swing back and forth like a pendulum: leaning further forward focuses the friction on the clitoris, and sinking your buttocks lower increases the pressure. Effort is low, and most of the load falls on the knees.

Why this position works

Many people enjoy it because it leaves the hands free and gives a broad, diffuse kind of friction that feels different from fingers. Since you control the rhythm, the angle and the pressure, it is easy to go slowly and discover what feels good to you. Some people have used it since adolescence and find it familiar and relaxing; sensations vary from person to person.

Sensory Exploration Self-Discovery Easy Maximized Clitoral Stimulation Non-Penetrative Interaction Self-stimulation

Variations of this position

Variation 1: Vertical swing

The same astride position, but the pelvis moves up and down on the pillow instead of back and forth.

Instead of the horizontal rocking, the buttocks lift slightly and lower back onto the pillow: the friction is more intermittent and the pressure changes with each descent.

  1. Kneel astride the pillow with your hands on the mattress.
  2. Lift your buttocks slightly, pushing up through your knees.
  3. Lower them gently until the vulva presses against the pillow again.
  4. Adjust the height and speed to find a comfortable pressure.

Variation 2: Circular swing

The same astride position, but the hips trace circles on the pillow.

The movement is no longer just back and forth: the pelvis turns in small circles without lifting off the pillow, so the friction travels across the whole vulva.

  1. Kneel astride the pillow with your pelvis resting on it.
  2. Start with the back-and-forth rocking of the basic technique.
  3. Turn the rocking into small circles without lifting your pelvis off the pillow.
  4. Make the circles wider or tighter to change the intensity.

Variation 3: Swing with a vibrator

The same astride position, with a vibrator placed between the vulva and the pillow.

The friction of the pillow combines with vibration: the vibrator is held in place by the weight of your pelvis, so your hands stay free.

  1. Place a clean vibrator on the pillow where your vulva will rest.
  2. Kneel astride and lower your pelvis until you feel it.
  3. Rock gently as in the basic technique so it does not slip.
  4. Start on the lowest setting and increase it gradually; clean the toy after use.

✓ Tips
  • Choose a firm pillow with a clean, washable, soft cover, and wash or change the cover after use.
  • Put a cushion or blanket under your knees if the mattress is hard: they carry your weight.
  • Lean your torso forward or back to change where the friction lands before pressing harder.
  • Avoid rubbing hard for a long time: prolonged friction against fabric can irritate the skin of the vulva. Stop if it stings or hurts.
  • You can keep thin cotton underwear between your vulva and the pillow if you prefer gentler friction.
Interaction type
Masturbation by grinding against a pillow
Active anatomy
Pelvis and hips (rocking)
Receptive anatomy
Vulva and clitoris
Main stimulation
External friction of the vulva and clitoris against the pillow
Setups and participants
Solo (him) · 1 person Alone

Frequently asked questions

Can I use lubricant with this technique?

It is not usually needed, because the friction is external and against fabric. If you notice dryness or irritation, it is better to ease the pressure, wear thin underwear or switch to a softer surface than to add lubricant, which stains the cover.

What if my knees get sore?

Put something soft under your knees, or try sitting on the pillow with your legs apart and your buttocks lower: this takes load off the knees.

How can I make the sensations stronger?

Try changing the angle of your torso, making circles with your hips, or adding a vibrator between your vulva and the pillow. Every body responds differently, so explore without rushing.

Is this a common technique?

Yes. Rubbing against a pillow or cushion is a very common way to masturbate, and many people discover it on their own.

Reviewed by the editorial team ·

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