What Is Jelqing: Do Penis Enhancement Exercises Work?

Key Points

• Because of the intricate nature of penile anatomy, men should not try size enhancement without careful consideration.
• The practice of jelqing has been proclaimed as a natural and cost-effective method for enhancing penile dimensions.
• Experts encourage a holistic approach to sexual wellness that goes beyond physical modifications.

First, note that the penile anatomy is intricate and any attempts at size enhancement should be approached with caution.

That advice applies to jelqing. Often hyped as a natural and cost-effective technique, it has gained attention for its purported potential to enhance penile dimensions.

What is the practice of jelqing? What do proponents claim it can do? How is it practiced and what are its potential benefits and side effects? Is there scientific backing for the practice? How important is it to seek professional advice to manage your expectations and make sure your journey is a safe one?

Proceed with caution

Be aware that any DIY attempts to alter the size of your penis may potentially risk sexual dysfunction. Such procedures should not be rushed, hurried or approached carelessly.

Fully 45 percent of men in the United States would like to become the proud owner of a larger penis, according to a 2016 study. That same study revealed that most women—more than 85 percent—were satisfied with their partner's penis size.

Those findings lead to the ironic conclusion that the root of society's obsession with large penises stems from men themselves.

Regardless of penis size, chances are you don't need any form of penis augmentation. Many men with normal-sized penises suffer from small penis anxiety, according to several studies. Unaddressed, this anxiety could develop into body dysmorphic disorder, associated with suicidal ideation.

Worrying too much about the size of your penis is counterproductive and could hinder your capacity to enjoy sex. If you are average in size, overcoming this unwarranted internalized insecurity is crucial. You should be focusing your attention and energy on the moment, and the person you're with.

Is jelqing a new concept to enhance penis size?

In the pursuit of increased size, men have explored various methods and techniques, including stretching exercises such as jelqing. This old technique has roots in Arabic culture and traditions and involves repetitive motions believed to promote penile growth.

"Jelqing is an ancient exercise that involves gentle, rhythmic squeezing and stretching of the penis," said Ketan Parmar, M.D., a forensic psychiatrist based in Mumbai, India. "It was originally developed by Arabic men as a form of male enhancement and has become a popular practice in more recent decades for men attempting to increase their penis size."

Another similar method called "milking" is employed in Sudan and North Africa and involves shaking the semi-erect penis up and down, accompanied by stretching maneuvers.

Jelqing requires massaging the semi-erect penis repeatedly from base to tip. According to expert research, it is the most prominent penis-stretching technique and is still widely practiced by many men around the world.

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How to do it right

To minimize the risk of side effects, if you still choose to try jelqing, follow a few precautions, said Martha Tara Lee, Ph.D., D.H.S., an AASECT-certified sex educator and clinical sexologist with Eros Coaching in Singapore.

She recommended five tips if you want to try jelqing:

1. Warm up. Before the jelqing exercises, warm up the penis with a warm towel or by taking a warm shower. This can help relax the tissues and minimize the risk of injury.
2. Use lubrication. Apply a water-based lubricant to reduce friction and make the jelqing process more comfortable.
3. Start slowly. Begin with gentle stretching and gradually increase intensity over time. Do not apply excessive force or pressure.
4. Listen to your body. Pay attention to any discomfort or pain during jelqing. If you experience pain or unusual sensations, stop immediately.
5. Consult a healthcare professional. If you have any concerns or questions about jelqing or penis enlargement methods, it's best to consult a healthcare professional who can provide guidance and advice tailored to your situation.

"If you're considering jelqing, it's essential to research and perhaps even seek guidance to ensure the proposed technique is safe and effective," said Lilith Foxx, a board-certified sexologist and inclusivity consultant in Houston. "The penis should be semi-erect, not fully erect or flaccid, and a lubricant can help reduce friction. The motion involves a consistent milking-like movement."

Jelqing does carry some risks if you do it incorrectly or too aggressively, according to Parmar.

"Some reported side effects include pain, discomfort and bruising of the penis," he said. "In extreme cases, jelqing can lead to injury or damage to the penile tissue. To minimize side effects and risks, it's important to practice proper jelqing technique with slow and gentle strokes."

He added that jelqing can potentially be dangerous and should not be done without consulting a qualified medical professional. Nor should men with certain medical conditions—diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease—engage in jelqing due to potential risks posed by general physical activity in the area and increased circulation.

"It's also important to understand that penis size does not determine sexual performance or pleasure, and men should not feel pressure to engage in risky practices for the sake of increasing their size," Parmar said.

Is it effective?

Anecdotal claims of jelqing's success exist, but scientific evidence is scarce. The available research has not conclusively shown jelqing or milking to be effective in achieving permanent penile enlargement.

"The efficacy of jelqing is a matter of debate," Foxx said. "While some individuals report increases in penis size, scientific evidence backing these claims is limited. It's important to understand that any potential size increases might be temporary and regular practice is often needed to maintain such changes."

Individuals interested in penis enhancement should explore safer methods and treatments. She added some sex toys may emulate some of the desired goals of having a larger penis and, importantly, foster a positive body image and promote the understanding that size isn't the sole or primary contributor to sexual satisfaction.

"Given the risks associated and limited scientific evidence supporting its efficacy, I approach jelqing with caution and do not recommend it unless the person is under the discretion and guidance of a licensed medical professional," she said.

Parmar agreed.

"While jelqing may have potential benefits in terms of increased circulation and improved penile health, these benefits are largely outweighed by the risks associated with this exercise," he said. "Therefore, I cannot recommend jelqing as an effective method for penis enlargement."

You've Always Wondered: What Is Considered a Big Dick?: What size penis counts as 'big,' and is being well-endowed all it's cracked up to be? Hint: It's not all good news.

Sexual health and overall well-being should be prioritized

You should note healthy communication, mutual understanding and emotional connection play pivotal roles in a fulfilling sexual relationship. Seek professional advice before attempting any form of penile augmentation. We do not endorse or recommend the practice of jelqing or any similar techniques without consulting a medical professional.

Your sexual health and overall well-being should be prioritized above the pursuit of temporary solutions with potential risks.

"There are other safe and effective ways to enhance sexual experiences and satisfaction that do not involve potentially risky techniques like jelqing," Lee said. "Open communication with your partner, exploring different sexual activities, and focusing on overall sexual health and well-being can each contribute to a fulfilling sex life.

"It's normal for penises to vary in size and shape. What matters most is the quality of the sexual experience and the emotional connection with your partner."

Approach jelqing and any similar practice with a holistic perspective, according to Foxx, one that prioritizes physical and emotional safety and comfort.

"Sexual satisfaction and body confidence are multifaceted," Foxx added. "Focusing solely on physical modifications can miss the broader picture of holistic sexual wellness."