Everything You Need to Know About Jelqing

Some people claim jelqing can prolong erections or make the penis look bigger, but scientific investigation into the practice is sparse.

Jelqing is a manual stretching routine for the penis. It consists of massaging the penile tissues and stretching the skin to create tiny “micro-tears” that appear engorged as they heal.

The stated aim of jelqing is to increase penile size. However, most supporting accounts are anecdotal; there’s no rigorous research that proves whether it’s effective or not.

Among the more questionable assertions, proponents say regular jelqing can:

• increase penis thickness when flaccid and erect
• increase penis length both flaccid and erect
• extend the duration of erections

Is there evidence that jelqing works?

There isn’t enough scientific data to confirm or refute jelqing’s effects.

Below is a brief summary of studies looking at more controlled stretching approaches, such as traction devices, which may provide some context:

• A 2011 study reported that traction devices could increase penile length by up to an inch when worn at least 9 hours per day for 3 months.
• A 2011 review of lengthening literature found traction devices produced results comparable to surgery and recommended them as an initial option.
• A 2013 review focusing on traction devices concluded they were useful for correcting penile deformities but did not clearly show gains in length or girth.
• A 2016 report found no significant benefit of traction devices on penile length or circumference, and emphasized the need for larger, better-designed trials.

Possible side effects

If performed gently and infrequently, jelqing is generally low-risk. The dangers increase when pressure is too strong, sessions are too frequent, or technique is aggressive.

Aggressive manipulation can tear tissue or damage the ligaments anchoring the penis to the pelvis. In severe instances, such injury may permanently impair erections.

Other potential adverse effects include:

• bruising of the penis
• shaft pain or soreness
• skin irritation from friction
• scar tissue from excessive rubbing
• erectile dysfunction (ED)

How to reduce the risk of harm when jelqing

If you decide to try jelqing, several precautions can help lower the chance of pain or injury:

• Use lubrication: Apply a lubricant to reduce friction between your hand and the penis. Petroleum jelly works, as do unscented lotions, baby oil, or culinary oils like olive or coconut oil if needed.
• Avoid full erection: Aim for roughly two-thirds hardness. Jelqing is meant to gently move blood through tissues; when fully erect the tissues are already engorged and not suitable for stretching.

Additional practical advice for jelqing or similar stretching routines:

• Stop immediately if you feel pain or severe discomfort.
• Sit or lean against a surface for stability while performing the motions.
• Limit sessions to no more than twice daily to reduce injury risk.
• Talk with a healthcare provider before undertaking prolonged or frequent sessions.

How to perform a basic jelq

To begin:

1. Form an O with your thumb and index finger, similar to the “okay” sign.
2. Place this O at the base of the penis.
3. Shrink the O until you apply light pressure on the shaft.
4. Slowly glide your fingers toward the glans until you reach the tip, easing pressure if you feel pain.
5. Release the grip at the tip. The stroke should take about 3 to 5 seconds from base to tip.
6. Repeat daily for about 20 minutes.

If you want to vary your approach, consider these options:

• Try different grips, such as the pincer: Place your thumb under the shaft and your index finger on top, gently squeezing with both fingers facing downward, as if pinching.
• Omit lube sometimes: Lubrication helps reduce friction, but you might skip it if it overly stimulates you or causes unwanted hardness. Be cautious to avoid chafing.

How long until you might see changes?

The timeframe for potential results depends on frequency, consistency, and technique.

Existing research doesn’t clearly establish how long jelqing or similar stretching exercises take to produce measurable changes.

Even devices with some clinical support, like traction systems, require months of regular use before any effects become apparent.

When to stop and seek other options

Discontinue jelqing and consult a professional if you notice any of the following during or after a session:

• persistent pain or discomfort
• itching
• bruises or skin discoloration
• red spots along the shaft
• numbness or tingling
• ruptured veins

Other approaches to improve erection size or firmness

Here are alternatives with more evidence or clinical backing to help enhance length, firmness, or erection quality:

Penis pumps

This method places the penis in an air-tight cylinder and uses a pump to evacuate air, drawing blood into the penis and producing an erection.

After achieving an erection, a constriction ring at the base helps maintain rigidity for up to 30 minutes while engaging in intercourse or masturbation.

Traction devices

Traction systems are designed to elongate the penis gradually over time.

Usage involves securing the penis into the device and attaching the opposite end to the pelvic area to apply gentle stretch. The device is typically worn for about 4 to 6 hours daily over several months without causing pain.

When to see a doctor

Talk to a healthcare professional if you’ve tried exercises for a few months without results or remain dissatisfied with your erections.

Keep a few points in mind before pursuing medical or surgical routes:

• Average erect length is 5 to 7 inches: If you fall within this range, you may be underestimating your size.
• Psychological factors influence erections: Stress or emotional issues can impair function; your clinician might refer you to a sex therapist if no physical cause is found.
• A markedly curved or painful erection may indicate Peyronie’s disease: Scar tissue in the penis can produce curvature or pain and is often treatable with procedures similar to those used for lengthening.

One clinical option doctors may suggest for Peyronie’s disease or for those seeking a more definitive size change is a penile implant.

This surgical approach places a silicone rod or sleeve along the shaft tissues to increase apparent length or girth.

The bottom line

If you want to try jelqing, be realistic: it won’t produce overnight growth.

There’s little solid evidence supporting benefits from jelqing, and if you’re serious about increasing size, better-documented alternatives exist.