Are penises getting longer?
How long is the average penis? That’s a question that most penis owners have pondered at one time or another, wondering if their own penis was above (or below) average. A new study shows that the answer to that question has changed—researchers looking at penis length found that the average length of an erect penis increased 24% over the past 29 years.
Apparently, penises are getting longer
The results of this study, published in the World Journal of Men’s Health, showed that the average erect penis length went from 4.8 inches in 1992 to 6 inches in 2021. The researchers looked at 75 studies published between 1942 and 2021, including data from 55,761 men across the world to reach these conclusions.
But why? And why does it matter?
The study authors speculate about why there may have been a significant change over a relatively short period of time. One idea is that exposure to “hormone-disrupting substances,” like pesticides or other chemicals in our food, hygiene products, and environment, may be a factor. Exposure to these hormone disruptors has been suggested as a reason that young people are starting puberty earlier, and earlier puberty can affect genital development.
But it’s not yet clear, and that’s why lead author Dr. Michael Einsenberg thinks more research is needed: “Any overall change in development is concerning, because our reproductive system is one of the most important pieces of human biology. If we’re seeing this fast of a change, it means that something powerful is happening to our bodies. We should try to confirm these findings and if confirmed, we must determine the cause of these changes.”
So…size does matter?
On a global scale, maybe. Researchers are interested in learning more about why penis length seems to have increased in the past few decades to see if there are broader implications for men’s reproductive health. But on the individual level, no. There are very few instances where size, or shape, of a penis should be a concern. For more on this, read our expert answer below on penis size.
I have a small penis. How can I enlarge it?
There’s not a lot you can do about the size of your penis just like there’s not a lot you can do about how tall you are or whether your eyes are blue or brown. That’s okay. A lot of men feel pressure to have a big penis. We’ve been told big is what partners want and fed some unrealistic images about male anatomy. But massive members are not the reality of most men.
Most penises are smaller than you think they are. When surveyed, men say they believe the average penis size is 6 inches. It’s not. In fact, the average penis is about around 3.4 inches long when it’s flaccid (soft) and 6 inches long when it’s erect (hard).
Whether you’re having vaginal sex, oral sex, or anal sex, most partners don’t want or need a really big penis to enjoy sex. Some partners may even find having sex with people with very large penises uncomfortable.
As a society, we’re kind of obsessed with all things bigger. We want bigger burgers, bigger houses, bigger cars, and of course, bigger penises. There are people who will try to make money off this bigger-is-always-better attitude. They will offer to sell you products, pills, or even surgeries designed to make your penis longer or wider. Most of these don’t work, and some come with potential serious side effects like erectile dysfunction or orgasm problems.
Put away the ruler. Instead of worrying about getting a bigger penis, spend time increasing the pleasure that you get from the one you have. Maybe try some new masturbation techniques, pick a different sex position, buy a new sex toy, or get some really good lube.
More Resources
Penis Size FAQ
From the Kinsey Institute. Includes a selected bibliography of research resources related to penis size compiled in response to frequent questions received by the Institute.
Manhood: The Bare Reality
In this book by Laura Dodsworth, cisgender and transgender men share their stories—and photos of their penises—in another celebration of genital diversity.
Condom Size—Find the Right Fit
Even though a regular external condom will work for just about any penis, there are lots of options out there. Condoms come in a variety of styles and sizes to meet the needs of different people.
Learn More
