Having a hip replacement

Safe sex positions

Many people have questions about having sex after a hip replacement. It’s usually safe to have sex about 4 to 6 weeks after your hip surgery. But you should wait until you feel ready and are comfortable.

For the first 3 months, it’s important that you protect your new hip joint. When you’re ready to have sex:

Make sure you let your partner know what’s comfortable or if a position causes pain.
Make sure you’re comfortable before you start. You may find it helps to use pillows.
Move gently and don’t make any sudden movements.
Make sure your partner doesn’t put all their weight on your hips.

Safe positions

Missionary. Partner on top has had surgery.

Missionary. Partner on bottom has had surgery.

Spooning. Partner in front has had surgery, and has their leg supported by pillows.

Partners laying on their sides, facing each other. Partner who has not had surgery has one of their legs between the legs of the partner who has had surgery.

Cowgirl. Partner laying down has had surgery.

One partner laying on the other, both face down. Partner on the bottom has had surgery.

Standing doggy. Partner in the back has had surgery and is supported by partner in front.

Credit: Vancouver Coastal Health

Unsafe positions

These positions are not safe for your hip joint after a hip replacement surgery.

Kneeling doggy. Partner in front has had surgery.

Hips twist too much.

Partners are sitting in a chair, facing each other. Partner on top has had surgery.

Hips bend too much.

Cowgirl. Partner on top has had surgery.

Hips bend too much.

Spooning. Partner in front has had surgery, and their leg is not supported by pillows.

Hips bend and twist too much.

Credit: Vancouver Coastal Health

Current as of: April 15, 2021

Author: Bone & Joint Strategic Clinical Network

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This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

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