How Does Penis Stretching Work?

Penis stretching involves performing exercises or using devices aimed at increasing penile length or thickness. While these methods can sometimes produce a temporary enlargement, they also carry risks if not executed safely.

In simple terms, penis stretching means manipulating the penis with your hands or with a mechanical device to try to make it longer or thicker.

There is some anecdotal and limited clinical evidence that stretching can yield small size changes, but the benefits tend to be modest and in some instances short-lived.

Keep reading to understand how penis stretching is thought to work, what realistic outcomes look like, and safe techniques you can consider at home.

How does penis stretching work?

It’s crucial to note that much of what is known about penis stretching comes from personal reports rather than robust clinical trials.

Manual stretching exercises

Manual stretching involves massaging and pulling the penile tissues along its length with your hand. The goal is to stretch the skin and induce tiny “micro-tears” in the tissue. As these areas heal they may swell slightly, making the penis appear longer.

Certain routines also claim to increase penile thickness. Girth-focused techniques, like jelqing, likewise center on repetitive tissue massage.

Regular practice is important to attempt to sustain any perceived gains.

Stretching devices

Although clinicians have investigated some penile extension tools, their overall effectiveness remains uncertain.

Consider the penis pump: a hollow cylinder that fits over the genital area and creates negative pressure. It reliably produces an immediate erection, and anecdotal reports suggest persistent use might gradually add some length.

Penile traction devices are another option. They apply a pulling force to the penis and are sometimes used to correct curvature. Traction has been employed in treating Peyronie’s disease, but further studies are required to define how well it increases size.

What the research says

Scientific study of penis stretching methods is limited. No existing research conclusively identifies one approach that permanently lengthens the penis. Short-term size increases, however, may be possible.

One study reported that users of the Andropenis extender who wore it for extended daily periods (up to 9 hours) noted size gains.

In that trial participants used the device for about 6 hours each day over 4 months and experienced an average gain of roughly 1.7 centimeters (around 2/3 of an inch) in length. Girth was not affected.

There is comparatively more data on traction devices, although not specifically focused on permanent lengthening:

• One study observed that men who used traction devices for up to 9 hours daily across 3 months gained up to about 1 inch in length.
• A review of penile traction research concluded that these devices are most helpful in correcting curvature or deformities rather than substantially increasing length.
• Another review found minimal lengthening effects from traction devices.

How to stretch safely

Trying manual stretching generally poses little danger for many men and may improve comfort with penile size and appearance.

The following guidance is drawn from anecdotal reports. Research in this area is limited, so consult a doctor or other healthcare provider before beginning any new method.

Manual stretching precautions

Before attempting any hand stretches:

• Only perform these exercises when flaccid.
• Stop immediately if you feel pain or significant discomfort.
• Consider sitting or standing with your back against a wall or near a stable surface for support.
• Limit sessions to once or twice daily to lower the risk of injury.
• Talk with a healthcare professional if you’re considering longer holds or increased frequency.

To perform a basic manual stretch:

1. Hold the glans (head) of your penis.
2. Pull upward and hold the stretch for about 10 seconds.
3. Then pull to the left for 10 seconds, followed by the right for 10 seconds.
4. Repeat this routine once or twice a day for roughly 5 minutes total.

Another variation:

1. Grip the head of the penis.
2. Pull upward.
3. Apply pressure around the penile base simultaneously.
4. Hold for about 10 seconds.
5. Repeat with the penis pulled left while pressing the base on the right side.
6. Repeat with the penis pulled right while pressing the base on the left side.
7. Do this sequence once daily for up to 2 minutes.

To perform jelqing:

1. Create an O-shape with your index finger and thumb.
2. Place that O at the base of the penis.
3. Tighten the O until you exert light pressure on the shaft.
4. Slowly slide your fingers toward the glans until you reach the tip. Ease up on pressure if it becomes painful.
5. Repeat this for about 20 to 30 minutes once per day.

Using devices

How to use a penis pump:

1. Insert your penis into the air-sealed chamber.
2. Operate the pump to reduce air pressure, drawing blood into the penis and producing an erection.
3. Attach the supplied ring or constriction band to maintain the erection for up to 30 minutes. It may be possible to have sex or masturbate while the ring is in place.
4. Remove the ring after the session.

How to use a traction device:

1. Place the penis into the device’s base end.
2. Secure the glans in the notches on the opposite end.
3. Wrap the silicone band around the shaft to hold it in place.
4. Hold the ends of the silicone band at the device’s base and gently extend the penis outward. Stop if you feel pain or discomfort.
5. Maintain the stretched position for about 4 to 6 hours daily.

Potential risks and complications

Aggressive or improper stretching can tear tissue or damage the ligaments anchoring the penis, potentially impairing erection quality.

When using traction devices, follow your provider’s recommendations about wear time. Excessive wear can lead to injuries that affect penile function.

After using a pump, do not leave the blood trapped in the penis for longer than 30 minutes. Sustained erections lasting several hours can cause lasting harm.

Possible side effects of stretching or devices include:

• itching
• minor bruising or changes in color
• red spots on the shaft
• numbness
• ruptured veins

If problems persist for more than a couple of days or are severe, see a healthcare professional. A clinician can evaluate your symptoms and recommend next steps.

Seek immediate medical attention for:

• a sudden, painful loss of erection
• marked swelling
• significant bruising

When to expect results

Outcomes depend on the method used and the regularity of application.

Traction devices typically require daily use for months to produce noticeable changes.

Anecdotes claim penis pumps can create faster alterations, but solid evidence to back that up is lacking.

It’s also uncertain how long manual stretching takes to show any result, if at all.

The bottom line

If you’re concerned about penile size, discuss it with a healthcare provider. They can review your options and advise on safe practices for attempting lengthening.

Understanding how your penis reacts to stretching and other stimulation may boost your comfort with your body; you might also observe gradual changes in appearance or function over time.

Follow product instructions and any guidance from your doctor. Incorrect stretching can cause injury or erectile dysfunction.

Get immediate medical help if you feel pain while stretching or notice changes in erectile capability.