A study was once conducted to answer a question that has perplexed men for millennia.
What do women consider to be the ideal penis size for a partner?
This groundbreaking and vital piece of research asked women to make their choice based on two scenarios – one-night encounters and long-term relationships.
The results sparked a conversation about sexual preferences and modern dating expectations.
In reality, there is no ‘perfect’ size – we’re all different, right? – and the scientists behind it warn that preferences vary widely and context matters.
But that’s not what you’re here for, is it?
Credit: Pexels/Kimona
The perfect penis size – according to the women surveyed
So, what did the study actually find?
For casual hookups, women on average chose a model measuring 6.4 inches (16.3 cm) in length and 5.0 inches (12.7 cm) in girth.
For long-term relationships, the preference shifted slightly to 6.3 inches (16.0 cm) in length and 4.8 inches (12.2 cm) in girth.
The differences were modest, showing that context influences what women find attractive, but extreme sizes were rarely chosen.
The study emphasizes that while these numbers are above the statistical average, they are far from ‘ideal’ for everyone.
Scientist warns against ‘perfect’ label
Dr. Nicole Prause, who spoke to Vice, urged caution in calling any penis ‘perfect.’
She explained: “Please don’t call any penis the perfect penis.”
Prause said the research is more about exploring variation than dictating an ideal.
Women’s preferences shift depending on the situation, the relationship type, and individual differences.
“Situational context matters,” she said, adding: “What someone prefers for a one-night stand may differ from what they prefer in a long-term partner.”
Credit: Pexels/Marta Longas
What the study actually measured
You might be wondering exactly how this study worked, and – to be honest – you might also have expected it to contain loads of men, and their penises.
Unfortunately, you’d be wrong.
Researchers presented women with 33 different 3D models to pick their ideal partner for casual and committed scenarios.
Most women recalled the models accurately, though some slightly underestimated the length compared with the girth.
The small differences in preference illustrate that while certain sizes are more commonly chosen, variation is significant.
Individual tastes, sexual compatibility, and relationship dynamics often outweigh simple measurements.
The study also shows that the idea of a ‘perfect penis’ is largely a social construct.
It’s more useful to focus on mutual satisfaction and comfort rather than strict numbers.
Just be a decent dude, and use what you’ve been given – size doesn’t really matter that much.
