Size and confidence
Grower vs shower: why flaccid size tells you very little
If you have ever felt small in the changing room, you may simply be a grower. Understanding grower vs shower helps put penis size worries into perspective.
In short: A grower is a man whose penis increases a lot in length from flaccid to erect. A shower looks larger when soft but grows less. A study of 274 men found that around a quarter gained more than 4 cm on erection, while others gained much less. Flaccid size is a poor predictor of erect size, and temperature, stress and arousal all change how the penis looks.
What the terms mean
Grower
A noticeably smaller flaccid penis that lengthens a lot when erect.
Shower
A larger-looking flaccid penis that changes less in size when erect.
Most men fall somewhere in between.
What research shows
In a study of men measured in clinic, the gain from soft to erect varied widely, from under 2 cm to more than 8 cm. About a quarter were clear growers, gaining over 4 cm. There was little link between flaccid length and erect length.
Why flaccid size changes
- Cold water or weather causes the penis and scrotum to retract
- Stress and anxiety tighten the muscles and blood vessels
- Exercise sends blood to the muscles instead
- Belly fat can hide part of the shaft
Why it matters for confidence
Many men compare flaccid size in changing rooms or with porn and conclude they are small. Most of them are average when erect. Read average penis size.
How to measure correctly
- Measure when fully erect
- Place a ruler on top of the penis, pressed gently into the pubic bone
- Measure to the tip
- Measure girth around the middle of the shaft
The average erect length is about 13 cm.
When size worries go deeper
If you constantly check, compare or avoid intimacy because of size, it may be affecting your wellbeing. A discreet conversation can help. See why is my penis getting smaller and is a curved penis normal.
How we can help
Our naturopaths offer private consultations on size concerns and non-surgical options, with honest advice on what to expect. Read about penis enlargement consultations.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Is your main worry length or girth, or is it really how firm your erections are?
- Have you measured your erect length correctly, from the pubic bone along the top of the penis?
- Have you already bought pills, creams or oils that did not deliver what they promised?
- Do you take medicine for blood pressure, the heart, diabetes or mood?
- Do you have pain, a new bend, a lump or a recent injury?
If firmness is the real concern, erection support is likely to help more than any enlargement product. A yes to question four means any product needs checking for interactions first, and a yes to question five means you should see an appropriately registered medical professional before trying anything.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our men’s clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
What is a grower?
A man whose penis is small when soft but lengthens a lot when erect.
Is it better to be a grower or a shower?
Neither is better. Erect size and sexual function matter more than how the penis looks when soft.
Can you become a grower?
You cannot change your type, but losing belly fat and staying warm and relaxed can make the flaccid penis look larger.
Does flaccid size predict erect size?
Not well. Research shows little link between flaccid and erect length.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
