The Age Old Question

Does Size Really Matter?

As if there aren't enough dating pressures already (let alone appearance expectations), society perpetuates the myth that a man's sexual ability is directly proportionate to his penis size. The larger the penis, the more likely he will be able to please and satisfy his partner, right?

If that's NOT true, then why do most pornographic movies show men with large attributes? This might be oversimplifying the matter, but in all honesty, there are certain "tricks" used to make the member look bigger in this case. For instance, shaving or trimming pubic hair can make the penis look slightly bigger... And don't forget the special lighting used for filming.

Don't get me wrong; some of the "actors" do have larger than average penises, but the films may be misleading. So why go through the whole charade? Again, enter the societal myth: size = ability to satisfy. The videos merely perpetuate these expectations. Thus, the incredible obsession over a man's penis size.

According to "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex But Were Afraid to Ask," the average flaccid penis is about four inches in length. Additionally, the penis can increase in size by 20% or more when it becomes erect. The Alfred C. Kinsey Institute for Sex Research determined the average erect penis to be about 6.16 inches in length and 4.84 inches in width.

Now before you go grab a ruler, consider the following facts. The average vagina ranges from about three to five inches in length. Of course, it has the ability to swell and expand in width and length during arousal and/or intercourse.

THEREFORE, "that means that virtually every adult male has a penis that can reach and vigorously massage every square inch of almost any vagina." (From "Everything You Always...") A woman's vaginal barrel size and shape is unique to her, and the vagina can swell and adapt to almost all penis sizes. Thus, size doesn't always matter.

Though the vagina is three to five inches in length and rich with blood vessels, the first third is the most sensitive. And what hot spot resides in this front section? The G-spot, of course! That's why it's not necessarily the length, but HOW the man swivels his hips, thrusts, etc.

On the other hand, perhaps it DOES matter. Or, actually, it has everything to do with a woman's vagina size, too. Remember I said a woman's vaginal barrel size and shape is unique to her? Though the vagina has the ability to swell and accommodate various penis sizes, many women report that they just "can't handle larger penises" or they "don't feel anything" when the man is smaller. Let's tackle both instances.

If your partner has a larger member, experiment with positions that will work best for you. For example, the March Sexual Position of the Month might not be ideal for above-average-sized penises. He might have to be more careful and control the depth of penetration. BUT still, some women simply say a penis can be too big, PERIOD.

A shorter penis might feel more substantial while trying variations of doggie style, which allows for deeper penetration. The latter position tends to stimulate the G-spot, and you remember what we said about that hot spot...

I encourage Kegel exercises for all women, but they might be especially important if your partner has a shorter penis. One subscriber said these exercises allowed her to "grasp her partner better" when he was inside of her. This is a set of exercises developed by Gynecologist Arnold Kegel to help build pelvic muscle tone in women. If there is enough interest, I will write an article about this.

Here are a few side notes to consider. Age plays a role in a man's erection. He might not get as hard as when he was younger. Additionally, if man is overweight, the penis might seem smaller than it actually is. According to Dr. Ruth, it might be "buried beneath the skin."

You've heard that a man's foot size is indicative of his penis size, right? Wrong. This just in: his hands are a better indication! All that being said, MANY women SWEAR that width is more important than length.

What should matter is the lover's heartfelt attentions and caring efforts to increase pleasure and satisfaction...is this true or a Pollyanna defense?

Share your opinion anonymously in the poll below. This is a very unscientific survey, but I'll let you know how many respondents think size matters. Yes, no, or maybe? Email me or feel free to comment with your opinion! As always, I remain...

Devotedly yours,

The “Head” Hunkette

What do YOU think?

take my poll at: The Age Old Question:

htmlGEAR.com