QUESTION: What is the correct way to measure an adult man's erect penis -- both length and girth?\nANSWER: The standard way to measure one's penis is to place a ruler or other measuring device under the erect penis such that the bottom of the ruler is flesh against one's skin and the penis lays length-wise on the ruler. In terms of measuring the circumference (girth) of one's penis, a common method of measurement is to wrap a tape measure around the middle of the erect penis. However, a penis does not always have the same circumference at different parts of the penis. Sometimes a penis is widest at the base, other times it is widest in the middle or closer to the glans (head) of the penis. Consequently, it can be difficult to make comparisons between difference measurements of circumference.\nIn a recent study conducted by researchers at IU, men reported length sizes between approximately 3 and 12 inches in length, though other research studies have included men of smaller and larger lengths as well. Circumference varies greatly too. Further, men of all penis sizes can have satisfying, pleasurable and exciting sex lives. The size of a man's penis is not necessarily related to his ability to please his partner nor is it related to his masculinity. \nIn fact, though many men often wish for a longer or thicker penis, it is not always easy for a man to have a larger than average penis. Such men may find it challenging to find a partner who can comfortably have intercourse or perform oral sex on them, although variations in positioning and technique, as well as the use of personal lubricants, may be helpful.
Some men even connect with each other over the Internet (via large or small penis support/information groups) to share tips on anything from sexual to locker room behaviors (e.g., concerns about having one's penis be seen in the locker room or at the urinal). Fortunately, many men -- like many women -- tend to develop increasing comfort with their bodies over time in terms of the way that they look and function.\nMy penis points upwards when erect. The angle is even sharper as I get more excited. Is this normal and do women like that (do I stimulate their G-spot during the intercourse) or not (sometimes my girlfriend dislikes the angle of penetration in some positions)? Would it be better if the angle was 90 degrees?\nIt is indeed common for a man's erect penis to point either to the side, upward or downward and for this angle to vary based on how excited or aroused he feels. In fact, it is less common for a penis to be perfectly straight and to point out exactly ninety degrees from his body. While the shape of one's penis and the angle of one's erection varies among men, there are some cases in which the angle or curvature are more pronounced, making erections painful or intercourse difficult, if not impossible. It is best to visit a physician, typically a urologist, to make sure if you have concerns and/or discomfort.\nIt is true that some women enjoy it when a man has a curved penis or an angled erection such that it facilitates stimulation of the area sometimes referred to as the "G spot" (the part of the vaginal wall that is about 1 to 2 inches inside a woman's body, on the front wall of her vagina) during intercourse. However, there are several other ways to stimulate this area of a woman's body such as by having her tilt her hips upward or downward in certain intercourse positions, by the man moving his body to focus stimulation on that area, using one's fingers or using a G spot vibrator. Then again, not all women find G spot stimulation to be pleasurable or orgasmic, and it's important to talk with one's partner to find out what he or she enjoys.\nAs with any penis -- regardless of its shape or size -- some intercourse positions can feel uncomfortable or even painful for women, even if those same positions feel fine to her on other days. If your partner is uncomfortable, talk with each other about exploring other positions or other kinds of sexual sharing (e.g., kissing, oral sex, hand stimulation, sensual massage) so that you both can feel physically and emotionally comfortable with your sexual choices.\nWhile men's and women's genitals can and often do play important roles in our sexual sharing, there is fortunately so much more to love, sexual intimacy and relationships. Consider reading a book such as "The Good Vibrations Guide to Sex" for ideas about sexual exploration and communication that may enhance your relationship.
