Scientists do not really know the average length of a penis, but they believe it is probably around 5.1 to 5.5 inches. This is smaller than most people think.
Many people experience anxiety about whether their penis is big enough and if it will satisfy a sexual partner. This can affect a person’s self-confidence and self-image. Often, however, these fears are unfounded.
A 2020 research article notes that most males believe the average length of an erect penis is around
While sizes vary widely, the average length is probably 12.9 to 13.97 cm (5.1–5.5 in), most likely toward this scale’s smaller end. While results vary slightly, most studies estimate the average to be within this range.
In this article, we look at some facts from various scientific studies to try and provide a realistic answer to this question. For many, this will offer reassurance about what to expect of the average penis size.
You’ll notice the language used to share stats and other data points is pretty binary, fluctuating between the use of “male” and “female” or “men” and “women.” While we typically avoid language like this, specificity is key when reporting on research participants and clinical findings.
A penis is only ‘too small’ if its size effects adequate sexual function or urination.
Many people seeking penis enlargement surgery do not fit this criteria and have ‘normal’ length penises. However, people may still perceive this to be too small. This is known as penile dysmorphophobia.
Micropenis and buried penis
The Urology Care Foundation states that surgery for penis enlargement is only medically necessary if a person has a micropenis. This is when a person’s stretched penis length is less than 7.5 cm.
Sometimes, an average-sized penis may appear small due because there is additional skin around it. People may refer to this as a buried penis, and surgery can resolve it.
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A 2023 review went further and reported global mean estimates of:
| Length (inches) | Length (centimeters) | |
|---|---|---|
| Flaccid | 3.42 | 8.7 |
| Stretched | 5.09 | 12.93 |
| Erect | 5.48 | 13.93 |
However, research into average penis size can be difficult due to inaccuracy of self-reporting and participant biases.
For example, a 2019 study found that many males overestimate the size of their penis when self-reporting, especially if they have experienced sexual activity with another person.
The research surveyed 170 college-aged males attending a human sexuality course. Results showed that those with sexual experience with another person were more likely to overestimate than those with no mutual sexual experience.
The authors speculate that sexually experienced men have a “greater sense of masculinity, sexual competence, and prowess.”
Some people worry about whether their penis size will live up to the desires of a partner. However, some older research suggests that penis length is not important for many female partners.
In one 2002 study, 77% of females who completed a questionnaire said penis length was unimportant or totally unimportant, compared with 21% who declared it important or very important. Those who said that length mattered to them also stated that girth, or width, was important.
In another survey,
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The models ranged from 10 to 21.6 cm (4 to 8.5 in) in length and 5 to 17.8 cm (2.5 to 7 in) in circumference.
The choices varied according to the nature of the relationship that participants were considering.
- For long-term sexual partners, they chose a length of 16 cm (6.3 in) and a girth of 12.2 cm (4.8 in).
- For one-time sex partners, they chose a length of 16.3 cm (6.4 in) and a circumference of 12.7 cm (5 in).
Overall, their desired size turned out to be slightly above the averages found across studies.
Health experts have also raised concerns about how anxiety around penis size affects gay males. The Gay Men’s Health Project, based in the United Kingdom, surveyed 586 males. It found that 38% of respondents said their penis size causes them anxiety.
The project urges males to seek help if they have concerns and to remember that, like people, penises come in many shapes, sizes, and skin tones.
Hormone treatment, surgery, and other techniques can increase the size of a very small penis. However, these treatments
Experts highlight concerns about the number of males seeking surgery to lengthen their penis. Often, these people overestimate the size of an average penis.
According to a
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A person’s penis size varies with age. For example, during youth and adolescence, it grows as a natural part of puberty. Later in life, a person’s penis may also shrink slightly.
Body composition can also have an effect. An increase in fat tissues around the pelvis due to obesity can make a penis seem smaller– a condition known as buried penis.
Obesity in youth
Penis size varies from person to person. Research suggests the average length of an erect penis probably ranges from 5.1 – 5.5 inches. If a person is concerned about their penis size, they should consider talking with a healthcare professional.
Many males worry about the size of their penis, and this can affect their self-confidence and self-image.
Guidelines that most doctors follow when helping someone decide if they need treatment state that the average size for a flaccid penis is
In addition, research suggests that small penises are relatively rare. Anyone concerned about their penis size should speak with a doctor or sexual health specialist, who can advise them.