Women's Preferences for Penis Size: A New Research Method Using Selection among 3D Models.
Level 4 - case-series / case-control
Cross-sectional laboratory choice study with a convenience sample
PubMed 26332467 · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0133079
What was done
Seventy-five women were presented with 33 physical 3D models of erect penises to assess their size recall accuracy and determine their size preferences across different relationship contexts (one-time versus long-term sexual partners).
What was found
Women accurately recalled model sizes, though they made more errors estimating length than circumference. For one-time partners, women preferred a mean length of 6.4 inches (16.3 cm) and circumference of 5.0 inches (12.7 cm). For long-term partners, preferred dimensions were slightly smaller: a mean length of 6.3 inches (16.0 cm) and circumference of 4.8 inches (12.2 cm).
Why it matters
By replacing abstract ratings and 2D images with 3D haptic models, this study provides more ecologically valid estimates of women's physical preferences, demonstrating that preferred dimensions are only slightly above average erect sizes.
Limits
The sample was small (N = 75) and demographic or cultural characteristics were not described in the abstract. Selecting rigid 3D models in a laboratory setting does not fully reflect real-world sexual encounters, physical comfort, or anatomical compatibility.
Cited by
- supports Studies evaluating female partner preferences report an average desired erect penis length of approximately 6 inches.