Mens Talks: Getting A Big Penis

After almost two weeks of denial and beating around the bush, New York Democratic congressman Anthony Weiner finally admitted to sending a photo of his bulge to a woman over Twitter. Although Weiner's hoping the incident won't affect his political career, it's definitely going to change the way women perceive his, well, wiener.

Despite all that a man has to worry about -- his career, his physique, his style, his image -- his penis size is always near the top of the list (and he’s usually interested in getting a big penis). And if you're going to follow in Weiner's footsteps by posting photos of your package online, you should at least know how you compare to other men.

So what exactly constitutes a big penis? Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as breaking out the old ruler; there are many other parameters that one must take into account if a full discussion of penis size is to be had, and hopefully we’ll tackle them all.

What is a big penis size?

This debate on penis size may never be answered, but the results of several studies seem to indicate that the average erect penis length is between 5.1 inches and 5.9 inches in length. So, anything longer than that can probably be considered big. Literature around the average girth or circumference seems to flip-flop, but several studies have described an average mid-shaft circumference to be 4.49 inches and 4.97 inches when fully erect.

How do I measure my penis size?

Any measurements that you take should be done when your penis is erect, as that’s all that matters when you’re pleasing a woman. To measure your penis length, simply measure from the base of the penis to tip of the penis with a ruler. Make sure, however, that you don’t measure from the underside; the base you should measure from is on the topside of your penis. For circumference or girth, take a piece of string and wrap it around the mid-shaft (halfway up the length of the shaft), then transfer the string to a ruler.

Flaccid penis length versus erect penis length?

Several studies have shown that flaccid penis length is not associated with erect penis length. Basically, this means that some men grow a lot more than others when erect. So, a small penis when limp does not necessarily mean a small penis when hard -- a fact you can now confidently convey to your girlfriend or future partner.

Is penis size related to body size?

Simply put, yes. Height appears to be related to overall penis size and has been associated in at least four studies. Weight, on the other hand, has been associated with penis size in some studies, but not as consistently as height. Generally speaking, body size is somewhat related to penis size, but the relationship is complex and not directly proportional.

What about hand and foot size? Not to dishearten those with size-12 Jordans, but the most recent study on foot size and penis length did not find a link. Interestingly, however, index finger length was found to be related to overall penis size in at least three studies.

Bottom line: If you’re a tall guy with a freakishly long index finger, chances are that you have a pretty big penis.

Until what age does the penis grow?

Boys enter puberty when they’re about 10 to 14 years old. Penises will likely stop growing around age 16 to 21, when puberty is complete. Need closure? If it’s been a couple of years since you’ve stopped growing in height, it’s a good time to start accepting your penis size.

Does circumcision reduce penile sensitivity?

Unfortunately, yes. Circumcision may also alter sexual behavior, with one study showing that circumcised men were more likely to masturbate and participate in heterosexual oral sex than uncircumcised men. Circumcision can also affect female sexual enjoyment, as it causes more friction, abrasion and vaginal dryness.

What are some of the perceptions around penis size?

Men are insecure: Several studies have indicated that men who believe their penises to be inadequate were actually average in size. Men overemphasize the importance of penis size and an American Psychological Association survey found that more women were satisfied with their partner’s size than men were satisfied with their own penis size. Despite the fact that it shouldn’t matter, men with a larger penis size have higher self-esteem.

Women are fine with average: The vulva, clitoris and inner portions of the female vagina closest to the outside are the most sensitive areas of the vagina. Even when aroused, the vagina usually extends only to a length of about 4.0 inches, well below the average penis size. Extremes of size are more of a problem, meaning that bigger is not always better.

Women prefer girth to length: Several studies have suggested girth is more important to women than length. Masters and Johnson, however, have suggested that penis size should have no physiological influence on sexual enjoyment because the vagina adapts to the size of the penis. More girth, however, may provide more clitoral stimulation.

What enhancement techniques are available?

There are many penis enhancement techniques available, and we’ve reviewed them in-depth before, but let’s give you a quick refresher. First off, remember that many men think that they are inadequate when they’re actually not; if you’re within the normal range in girth and length as identified above, penis enhancement is likely not for you.

Pills: Too many to choose from, evidence is varied and most require long-term use to have any effect. Erectile dysfunction pills like Viagra and Cialis will certainly help your erection (they’ll do little in your quest for getting a big penis), but should only be taken under the guidance of a physician for confirmed erectile dysfunction.

Penis pumps, jelqing, exercise programs, and stretching: These methods to getting a big penis probably won’t do anything at all. Exercise and stretching programs can be a good idea if you want to increase your stamina and help build your bedroom confidence, but you should try a full body approach. Increasing overall body strength and cardiovascular endurance will give you more energy and let you last longer in bed. Try sex-specific exercises.

Phalloplasty (penis enlargement surgery): This is the most effective method of getting a bigger penis, but it can be painful and expensive. This method will also probably do more to increase your girth than length, has a high post-operative dissatisfaction rate, and should only be considered if you are truly below average in penis size and are mentally suffering as a result.

don’t sweat the small stuff

Take a deep breath, guys. Chances are that you are well within average size. Hopefully by now we’ve dispelled some of the myths about being large. Sure, your self-esteem may get a boost if you’re well-endowed, but a long shlong won’t necessarily please your partner anymore than your average Joe.