In early 2026, a groundbreaking study published in PLOS Biology has reignited one of humanity’s oldest debates: Does penis size really matter to women? The research, led by scientists at the University of Western Australia, provides experimental evidence that yes, size does play a role in female attraction—but it’s far from the deciding factor, and bigger isn’t always better.
The Study: How Researchers Tested Attraction
The study, titled “Experimental evidence that penis size, height, and body shape influence assessment of male sexual attractiveness and fighting ability in humans”, involved over 800 participants (primarily heterosexual women and men). Researchers used computer-generated 3D images of naked male figures, systematically varying three key traits:
- Height
- Shoulder-to-hip ratio (a marker of muscular, V-shaped torso)
- Penis size (both length and girth, shown in flaccid state)
Participants rated these figures on sexual attractiveness and perceived fighting ability or intimidation as a rival.