How big is big? All about penis sizes worldwide

Penis size is a widely discussed topic during a night out at the terraces. From locker room talk to serious studies: all around the world people seem curious about that one question. Actually how big is the average penis? And does it vary by country? Time to get the facts straight, including the reassuring truth that pleasure in bed is much more about technique, self-confidence and connection than about centimeters.

What do the numbers say?

Through the years, scientists have measured thousands of men worldwide. Those studies show that the average penis is about 9 centimeters in flaccid state and between 13 and 14 centimeter erect. So the idea that masses of men walk around with twenty centimeters, is mostly a myth fueled by porn and tall tales.

Differences by country

Still, there are some striking differences. Studies suggest that countries in Africa tend to show slightly higher average scores. Men from Congo and Ghana, for example, often score above 16 centimeters erect. In many European countries, such as the Netherlands, Germany and France, the average is around 14 to 15 centimeters. Asian countries often have lower scores, with averages of around 11 to 12 centimeters.

Does that sound spectacular? In reality, it often comes down to just a few centimeters’ difference. And those few centimeters rarely make a difference when it comes to pleasure in bed.

The largest penis in the world

For those who are curious: the famous record for largest documented penis in the world goes to an American, Jonah Falcon. His penis measures a whopping 34 centimeters erect. Sounds impressive, but the truth is that a penis of that size is often inconvenient in practice. Many partners experience pain or discomfort, making pleasurable sex more difficult. Just goes to show: bigger isn’t always better.

What is a micropenis?

On the other side of the spectrum there’s the micropenis. A medical term for a penis shorter than 7 centimeters when erect. This is rare (less than 1 in 200 men) and can have genetic or hormonal causes. Although a micropenis is often associated with insecurity, it doesn’t mean that sex is impossible or unsatisfying. With imagination, toys and other forms of intimacy, they can have just as rich a sex life.

Fun facts about penis size

• On average, a penis grows about 60 to 70 percent from flaccid to erect.
• Smaller penises at rest often grow relatively more during an erection than larger penises.
• The longest penis ever measured was 34 centimeter, whereas the shortest (functioning) penis was only 1,6 centimeter erect.
• There is no scientific proof that foot or hand size says anything about penis size.
• In surveys, most women indicate that girth matters more than length.
• When erect most penises differ much less from each other than in flaccid state – so the myth of “showers” and “growers” is true.
• At rest the penis shrinks as a response to cold, stress or fear, due to muscle contractions in the body – completely normal and temporary.

Size versus experience

What exactly does size say about sexual pleasure? Surprisingly little. Women experience the most stimulation in the first 5 to 7 centimeters of the vaginal canal. Which means that even a smaller penis is more than sufficient to provide intense pleasure. Factors like foreplay, communication, rhythm and attention far outweigh the measurements of someone’s tool. Amen!