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What Is the Average Penis Size?

Published: OCTOBER 9, 2024

If you’ve ever had a penis, then you've had questions about your dick size. What is the average penis size? Am I too small? What about the average penis thickness? Do I have a micropenis? 

Worry after worry about dick size is an unfortunately common anxiety. Everyone thinks they don’t have enough length, girth, or a combination of both and therefore can not properly throw that D.

Thankfully, that is not the case. Let’s take a look at the, ahem, hard data behind the average penis size and how you can make the most out of whatever you have.

What’s the average penis size?

Let’s not beat around the bush and get to the answer we all have been waiting for! The average penis size is about five inches long when erect with around four and a half inches of girth. We’re saying “about” and “around” because there is no definitive average dick size. It’s a spectrum and everyone is different.

The absolute numbers are:

  • Flaccid: 3.6in when stretched with 3.66in in girth
  • Erect: 5.16in long and 4.59in thick.

Smaller than you thought, right? Most men and other people with a peen tend to fall on the lower end of the charts. Despite what porn might tell you, not everyone is walking around with Mjolnir in their pants. 

Obviously, genetics play the biggest role in dick size. Certain issues while in utero, such as not receiving enough nutrients or a hormone imbalance, can affect penis development, but besides that what you have in your jeans is thanks to your genes. 

Micropenises and Small Penis Syndrome

Micropenises, or Microphallus, are more of a ding than a dong. They are penises that fall below the average size by at least 2 ½ inches. So, even if you're smaller than average, you probably don't have a micropenis.

Small Penis Syndrome is more of a mental thing, where you agonize over the size of your package. That doesn’t mean you actually have a smaller penis, but you feel like you’ve got the smallest pecker in the world.  SPS is very relatable. Even if most of us don’t experience the anxiety of a full-blown syndrome, there have definitely been times when we have lamented our lack of length or girth. Speaking from personal experience as a 6’2”, size-12 dude with the okayest of wieners, no matter how well you can use your equipment, there is always that fear of humiliation. 

So, what should you do if you are minimally endowed?

In terms of medical intervention, doctors don’t recommend procedures like hormones or surgery unless you’re under 3” while erect. The procedures may work, but they carry some risks. Studies showed that not only do most folks change their minds about surgery after learning the risks, but most people seeking intervention are actually just average-sized.

If you’re unhappily rocking a micropenis and don’t want to have surgery, you could always use penis extenders or strap-ons.

Another option is to lean into it and explore the world of penis humiliation where your lil’ buddy is the star of their own roast.  

That being said, are we just worrying about nothing?

Does Size Matter?

Answer: No, not really. Some people might have a preference one way or the other, but as the saying goes, “It ain’t about the size of the boat, it’s about the motion in the ocean.”

As far as women's preferences go, studies show the average desired dick size is about 6” long and 5” around. It's not that much more than the average size, so chances are you’re doing great with what you have. 

I know as much as I say “you’re fine with what you have” that you’ll still think you don’t have the goods. First off, most people with a penis underestimate their actual size, but more importantly, remember that the average vaginal depth is only about 4”. We’re not trying to knock a kidney loose here, so don’t be so worried about needing a foot-long schlong. 

Also keep in mind, if it happens more than twice, then they actually like having sex with you and your penis. So, chill out.

Penis enlargement: Fact or fiction?

If you’re still looking to beef up your meat, there are some options. Unfortunately, these options are either temporary or not backed by science, and all come with some downsides. 

A popular tool for your tool is the classic penis pump. These use vacuum suction to force blood into your penis, making it seem temporarily larger. Pumps are generally safe, just be sure to use them properly to avoid injury. 

Pills and lotions, like the ones slapped across an incalculable amount of pop-up ads, have no studies or data to back them up. Think about it, if there really was a pill or cream that would actually give you a bigger cock, you would have heard about it by now. 

Surgery is an option but can be risky. Normally reserved for people with actual micropenises, surgeries can give the appearance of growth, but don’t actually change the length. Basically, it could turn your “grower” into a “shower,” but not by much. Risks involved in surgery include infection, scarring, or even loss of function. 

Look, it’s your dick, do with it as you please, but consider that you don’t really need any of this. Why spend the time, money, and effort on something that probably doesn’t need fixing?

Do you have fun with your penis? Does your partner? Then that means everything is good, homie. 

Get out of your head and enjoy what you, and most people, have. Be kind to yourself and your cock. 

Tips for Making Sex Even Better (Regardless of Size)

Remember that sex isn’t just about penetration. There are so many options to level-up your playtime, no matter your dick size.

  • Start with open and honest communication. Not only will you enhance your intimacy, but you may learn you’re the only one worried about your size. 
  • Get a headstart with foreplay or oral sex, get your partner close to orgasm, and then slip it in.
  • Try new forms of play or positions, like BDSM or adding a pillow under their hips for maximum penetration. 
  • Bring some toys in, like vibrators or plugs, to spice things up. Don’t think of the toys as replacing you, but an extra helping helping you dominate the bedroom. 

Pleasure isn’t just about size! This is supposed to be fun! Relax and enjoy yourself!

The Bottom Line

If we're honest with ourselves, we've all felt dissatisfied with our bodies at some point or another, but you shouldn’t beat yourself up over the size of your penis. 

Sure, most of us fall in the range of 5” and we all want to be swinging some serious dong, but the reality is that sexual satisfaction doesn’t come from length or girth. Thinking someone is great at sex because they have a giant dick is like thinking someone is a great chef because they have a decked out kitchen. 

Being good at sex means communication, attention, and relaxation. Love what you got and you’ll be throwing that dick like a champ!

Justin Perlman

Justin Perlman has written about sex, dating, LGBTQIA+ issues, and Pop culture for Philadelphia Weekly, Women's Health Interactive, and Kinkly. He lives with his wife, two cats (Superintendent Chalmers & Dr. Whoopsy Daisy), and a puppy (Walton Doggins).

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