Does Penis Size Really Matter?

My WebMD Sign In

Please enter email address

Enter your password

Keep me signed in on this computer

Show more Information

If you select "Keep me signed in on this computer", every time you visit WebMD.com you won't have to type your email address and password. This means that a cookie will stay on your computer even when you exit or close your browser which may reduce your levels of privacy and security. You should never select this option if you're using a publicly accessible computer, or if you're sharing a computer with others. Even if you select this option there are some features of our site that still require you to log in for privacy reasons.

Forget your password? Having trouble signing in?

Why should I
sign up for WebMD?

With a WebMD Account you can:

Track your way to weight loss success
Manage your family's vaccinations
Join the conversation

See more benefits Sign Up

Why WebMD?

My WebMD

Show Menu

Facebook Twitter Pinterest

WebMD Home

Men's Health

Taking on Erectile Dysfunction

Email a Friend

Print Article

Tips, Information, and
Insights from the WebMD
Erectile Dysfunction Community

Tips, Information, and Insights from the WebMD Erectile Dysfunction Community

Does Penis Size Really Matter?

Does size matter? That seems to be a question that every man has about his penis at one time or another. One young man shares his concern about penis size with other men in the WebMD Erectile Dysfunction Community. His penis is 2 inches when flaccid, and 5 inches when erect. He wonders if that is normal.

He’s soon reassured by several other men, as well as Sheldon Marks, MD, that 5 inches when erect is perfectly normal. Marks adds that penis size when not erect is unimportant. “You are either a ‘show-er’ or a ‘grower,’” Marks notes.

Are the media contributing to “inflated” expectations of penis size? That’s what one man thinks. He compares the effect of widespread pornography on perceptions of penis size to the impact of supermodels' looks on women’s self-image. His girlfriend tells him 7 inches when erect is average, although he knows that’s not consistent with what Marks says and studies he’s read. He even confesses that he’s been left for a man with a larger penis.

Other men add that while men may brag about extremely large penises, what counts is that both partners are able to get sexual pleasure. “Making love is all about making love,” says one. “I’m okay with my 5.”

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction Knowing what causes ED can help develop a treatment program.
Lifestyle Changes Can Help Your ED Boost your health and help your ED with these lifestyle changes.
Facts and Myths About ED Arm yourself with facts to fight ED
The ED Communication Connection Have an intimate talk with your partner about ED.
Talking with your doctor about erectile dysfunction. Overcome hesitance: Talk to your doctor about ED.
Is It Safe to Buy ED Drugs Online? Buying ED drugs online? Get the facts first.

Why Men Lose an Erection

An overview of the factors that cause erectile dysfunction.

The opinions expressed in WebMD User-generated content areas like communities, reviews, ratings, or blogs are solely those of the User, who may or may not have medical or scientific training. These opinions do not represent the opinions of WebMD. User-generated content areas are not reviewed by a WebMD physician or any member of the WebMD editorial staff for accuracy, balance, objectivity, or any other reason except for compliance with our Terms and Conditions. Some of these opinions may contain information about treatment or uses of drug products that have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. WebMD does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment.

Do not consider WebMD User-generated content as medical advice. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your care plan or treatment. WebMD understands that reading individual, real-life experiences can be a helpful resource but it is never a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified health care provider. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or dial 911 immediately.