When it comes to penises, there is an incredible diversity in terms of size, shape, and other physical characteristics.
However, most men do not acknowledge the variety of penises; sexologists may help you figure out normal characteristics.
Understanding your body and practising good hygiene is key to maintaining sexual health. In this blog, we will talk in detail about the types and debunk myths associated with penis size and health.
What Defines “Normal” in Male Penis Anatomy?
Penis come in many shapes and sizes, and most varieties are perfectly normal. Here are some characteristics that define penis types:
– Size: Penis size includes both length and girth or circumference.
– Base-to-Head Ratio: It is the comparison between the thickness of the shaft and the size of the penis head.
– Degree of Curvature: Most penises have a natural curve, either upward, downward, left, or right.
– Circumcision Status: Whether the foreskin has been removed or remains intact.
– Showers vs Growers: Some men’s penises stay close to their erect size when flaccid ie showers, while others expand significantly when aroused which are growers.
All these factors contribute to the unique structure of a penis. We as a society often focus too much on penis size and try to match societal expectations without realising most variations are natural and healthy.
Penis Size: The Reality Behind the Myths
Let’s talk about various penis characteristics while debunking common myths.
Penis Length
One of the most common concerns in male penis anatomy is penis length. Many people have misconceptions about what is considered average or normal.
A study involving over 15,500 men found the average flaccid penis length is 3.61 inches, while the average erect length is 5.16 inches.
The actual numbers are much lower than the projected image in the society. The golden number of every man owning 6 inches is not true after all.
Moreover, only 5% of men have erect penises longer than 6.3 inches and we are forced to believe that most men have more than 6 inches of penis length.
Penis Girth
In male penis anatomy, girth refers to the circumference of the penis. Just like length, there are misconceptions about average girth.
Studies that the average flaccid girth is 3.6 inches, and the average erect girth is 4.59 inches. Also, girth does not necessarily relate to the length of the penis.
Girth doesn’t necessarily correlate with length and some shorter penises have wider girths, while some longer penises can be narrower.
There can also be differences along the shaft. Some men have a penis that is wider at the base and tapers toward the head, while others may have it the opposite way.
Base-to-Head Ratio
The ratio between the circumference of the shaft and the size of the head can also differ. There are three common types –
- Narrow base, larger head – It is also known as mushroom head.
- Wider base, narrow head – Another common finding.
- Equal proportions: Here the shaft and head are approximately the same size.
These differences in shape are completely natural and mostly do not affect sexual performance or pleasure.
Penis Curvature
It is normal for a penis to have some degree of curvature when erect which is known as congenital curvature. The curve can be:
- Upward
- Downward
- To the left
- To the right
Most penises have a curve of less than 30 degrees in one direction which is normal and usually does not cause any pain or discomfort.
Studies reveal that 19% of men between the ages of 35 and 75 reported some degree of curvature, but only 2% experienced pain or sexual difficulty because of it.
Also, curves greater than 30 degrees may interfere with sexual activity and might require medical intervention.
Penile Curvature vs. Peyronie’s Disease
It is crucial to understand the difference between a naturally curved penis and Peyronie’s disease (PD). Pyeronie’s disease is a condition where the penis develops scar tissue that leads to an abnormal curve.
PD can also occur due to injury or repeated trauma and may result in pain and erectile dysfunction.
Around 0.5% to 13% of men experience Peyronie’s disease at some point in their lives. If the curvature is accompanied by pain or affects sexual function, it is important to consult a sexologist.
Circumcision: What You Should Know?
A circumcised penis is where the foreskin is surgically removed. This procedure is often performed shortly after birth for cultural or religious reasons.
Circumcision is supposedly a common practice in the United States and about 71% of men are circumcised, but the rate has been declining.
An uncircumcised penis has the foreskin attached, which covers the head when flaccid. This can increase sensitivity as the penis otherwise remains covered.
However, it requires proper hygiene to prevent infections that may occur due to unclean penis.
Being uncircumcised doesn’t pose health risks as long as good hygiene practices are maintained.
Showers vs. Growers: What’s that?
In male penis anatomy, there are two broad categories based on size changes when erect or flaccid.
Men often fall into one of two categories when it comes to the way their penis changes size between flaccid and erect states:
Showers: These are when the penis remains close to its erect size even when flaccid.
Growers: This is when the penis expands significantly when aroused. For growers, a smaller flaccid penis might double or even triple in size during erection.
Both the categories are absolutely fine, but understanding the differences can help answer the common concerns.
Does Race Influence Penis Size?
A persistent myth is that men of certain races, particularly Black men, tend to have larger penises.
However, studies have shown that the size difference between races is minimal. A 2018 study conducted in Brazil found that Black men had only slightly larger penises, with the difference of only about 1/4 inch.
Penis size can vary within any racial or ethnic group, and focusing too much on these myths can only lead to unnecessary stress.
Male Penis Anatomy and Care: Tips for Good Health
Size and shape may vary mostly according to genetics, taking care of the penis can help maintain good penile health.
Practising good hygiene, monitoring for potential health issues, and staying sexually healthy are crucial for long-term wellness.
Practice Good Hygiene – For both circumcised and uncircumcised men, keeping the penis clean is essential.
Circumcised men should wash the penis with warm water and a mild, unscented soap. It is important to clean the entire area, including the base and around the scrotum.
Uncircumcised men often make this mistake but they should retract the foreskin and clean beneath it. It should be done daily to prevent the buildup of sweat and bacterial growth which can lead to infections or unpleasant odors.
Regular Self-Examinations – Conducting regular self-checks is an excellent way to avoid any potential health issues. Look for various signs such as:
– Lumps, bumps, or sores
– Discoloration
– Changes in size or shape
– Unexplained discharge
If you notice any changes that are different than usual, you should consult a sexologist.
Practice Safe Sex – Sexual health is a part of overall penis health. Practicing safe sex by using condoms helps prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Regular testing is also key to early detection and treatment of STIs.
Manage Sexual Function Issues – Penile issues like erectile dysfunction, pain during intercourse, or issues like Peyronie’s disease should not be ignored.
There are various treatments available at a sexologist’s office for sexual dysfunctions that can be effective for everyone.
Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle – Hydration and a balanced diet play a crucial role in sexual health.
Having a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and staying physically active helps in maintaining good health and circulation, which is essential for erectile function.
Bottom Line
Male penis anatomy varies in size, shape, curvature, and circumcision status, and all of these characteristics are mostly normal.
Irrespective of whether you are a shower or a grower, circumcised or uncircumcised, maintaining good hygiene and sexual health practices is essential for long-term well-being.
It is important to embrace your body’s natural form and debunk common myths about penis size.
Focusing more on health can boost confidence and improve your sexual relationships. Taking good care of your penis is needed to stay healthy and functional for years to come.