It’s a topic clouded by myths and misinformation. Despite what pop culture suggests, sexual satisfaction is about far more than size. But if you’re looking for ways to enhance yours, what are the real options?
More importantly—are there safe methods that actually work?
Let’s dive in.
What’s the average size?
On average, a flaccid penis measures 3.61 inches in length and 3.67 inches in girth, while an erect penis averages 5.17 inches in length and 4.59 inches in girth.
Thanks to unrealistic portrayals in porn, many people develop skewed perceptions of penis size and feel they don’t measure up. The truth? It’s mostly genetic. Myths like “masturbation affects penis size” have no scientific backing—so there’s nothing to worry about.
That said, some techniques claim to offer modest size increases. Let’s break down three common methods and their effectiveness.
1. Penis Pumping
This method requires a simple but effective tool: a penis pump.
A penis pump is a cylindrical device that fits around the shaft, using a vacuum to enhance blood flow. Instead of continuous pumping, you place it on, let it do its work for a few minutes, and then remove it.
The immediate effect? Engorgement. Over time, with consistent use, you may see modest gains as the increased blood flow helps tone the veins, improving circulation and giving your penis a slightly fuller appearance—think of it like a workout for your vascular system.
I’ve partnered with Bathmate, which uses water-based hydropumps instead of air. Traditional air pumps can cause chafing or bruising, while hydropumps offer a gentler, more consistent experience with safer results. Users report long-term results, and after 2 months of use:
- 81% of users reported better erections or size gains
- Most users report improved libido
- Most users report improved confidence
- Most users report real improvements for size and more
You can use hydropumps in the shower for simplicity and privacy. Just place it on the penis, create the vacuum, wait for three minutes and you’re one step closer to natural gains.
2. Jelqing and penis stretching
Jelqing is a technique that involves manually stretching the penis to create micro-tears in the tissue, with the idea that it expands as it heals.
While anecdotal reports (especially on Reddit) claim success, there’s no reliable scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. More importantly, urologists generally do not recommend it—being too aggressive can lead to permanent damage. Proceed with caution.
Disclaimers out of the way, jelqing is not hard. The basic move is:
- Apply lube to your flaccid or semi-erect penis
- Make the OK sign with your thumb and forefinger
- Hold it tight at the base of your shaft (this hand never moves)
- Make another tight OK sign with your other hand
- Over the course of 5-7 seconds, slowly move that second OK hand from base to tip, squeezing your penis and gently stretching it
Repeat for a set number of repetitions. Most people start with 10-20 strokes.
It sounds a lot like masturbating, but the sensation is more like “milking” – less of an up-and-down motion, than one long down stroke from base of shaft to tip. Anecdotes say you can increase up to half an inch in length if performed daily (don’t overdo it) over the course of a few weeks.
Now keep in mind: people trying to increase penis size are often trying multiple methods at once. So if you do see glowing reports online, stay skeptical. Without quality studies, we really can’t know for sure. And while there are traction devices out there, those are typically used to correct curvature, not length. So if you’re going to try jelqing, use your hand.
3. Pills and creams
Let’s cut to the chase: these don’t work.
Yes, erectile dysfunction medicine exists, and it helps create and sustain erection. But that’s not the same thing as growing your body part, permanently.
What about creams? Well, the penis cannot absorb size-altering substances through the skin. Topical products do not affect deeper tissues, and worse, some of them contain contaminants! As you can imagine, these are not good for you.
While pills and creams for penis enlargement have zero efficacy, here are a few safe methods that do improve the appearance of your penis.
Manscaping: shaving or trimming your pubic hairs is free, easy, and will help your penis stand out more.
Losing weight: as you age, you tend to gain fat in the area in front of your genitals. This “hides” the penis and makes it look smaller by comparison. Losing weight in your gut will help your penis look bigger and more prominent.
The good, the bad, and the meh? on penis gains. At the end of the day, sexual satisfaction isn’t just about size — it’s about confidence, communication, and connection. Your partner is far more likely to remember how you made them feel than the inches involved. So if you’re happy and healthy, you’re already winning in the bedroom.
Want to learn more about sexual confidence? Ask me anytime inside my membership platform, SmartSX, submit your Qs to Ask Emily, or sign up for my newsletter and get sex secrets on the regular.
