Penises have distinct characteristics, not just in appearance and size but also in how they “present” themselves. Some guys were born with penises that didn’t mind showing up in the spotlight, and there are guys who are more, let’s say, introverted. These are typically categorized into two types: grower and shower.
Most of you have probably heard these terms before, but for those unfamiliar with them or who want to know more beyond the initial definition, this brief guide provides the basics.
Grower vs. Shower
A “shower” describes a person whose flaccid or non-erect penis is the same or close to the length of their erect penis. Their penis doesn’t change much in length when they get hard, and if they have an above-average size, the bulge can turn heads.
Meanwhile, a “grower” describes an individual whose flaccid penis is smaller than their erect penis. It might not make a big impression when soft, but it reveals its full size once aroused. However, there’s a common misconception that people with above-average penises must always be bulging, which isn’t true, especially since growers exist.
How to Tell if You’re a Grower or Shower
For those wondering what makes someone a grower or a shower, researchers have studied this and use the term’ change ratio’ to describe the concept. According to a 2018 study involving 274 participants, the median change in size from flaccid to erect is 4 centimeters, or approximately 1.5 inches. This has been used as a measurement to know if the person is a grower or a shower.
If you want to know if you’re a grower or shower using the four-centimeter baseline, measure your shaft when it’s flaccid and again when it’s fully erect. If your penis expands more than 4 centimeters, you’re a grower. But if the increase is less than that, you’re a shower.
Factors That Cause Growing or Showing Penis
A person’s penile change ratio is caused by several factors, such as the following:
1Genetics
One of the main factors why some are showers and others are growers is genetics. Some people were simply born with certain penile characteristics. According to renowned urologist Dr. Tobias Kohler, in his interview for Thrillist:
“It’s genetics— just like some people are taller and some people are shorter. There’s a genetic variation in humans like there is among all species and animals. It’s true that there is a discrepancy.”
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2Tissue Elasticity
Did you know your penile tissues can stretch and adapt? This tissue elasticity involves not just the outer skin, but also the inner fibrous layers and the ligaments that connect the penis to the body at the groin. The more elastic your penile tissue is, the more likely your penis is to “grow” and appear longer when erect.
Two primary factors influence the elasticity of your penile tissue: genetics and age. Your genes set the baseline, but as you get older, tissue elasticity naturally decreases, which then affects the “growing” capabilities. It’s because collagen, which is a major component of the penis and plays a key role in keeping penile elasticity and firmness, decreases with age.
3Medical Conditions
Medical conditions that affect blood flow can impact your penile ratio change, such as erectile dysfunction, high blood pressure, or heart conditions. Dr. Alex Shteynshlyuger, explained in the same interview with Thrillist:
“The difference between growers and showers is partly genetic and partly having to do with the health of the man… For some men the proportion of collagen is different than others. For example, in men with erectile dysfunction, studies show that there are changes to the penis in the proportion of collagen fibers, and that effects how stretchable the tissue is. Some people are born with more stretchable tissues.”
So if you’ve been a grower all your life and suddenly your penis isn’t expanding like it used to, it could mean your tissue elasticity has changed. Consult a urologist as soon as possible, as this could be a sign of an underlying condition.
4Hormones
Another factor that can influence how your penis presents itself is hormones. A 2021 study found that low testosterone levels can impact how the penis develops and functions. It’s even considered one of the main causes of erection issues, like ED. As mentioned in the previous point, consider consulting a doctor as you might be experiencing low testosterone.
Does It Affect Your Sex Life?
If you’re worried that being a grower or a shower might affect your sex life, you can relax. Your penis can function perfectly well either way. As long as it doesn’t fall under the category of a micropenis, there’s typically nothing to be concerned about.
Dealing With Being a Grower or Shower
Being a grower or a shower can come with its own set of challenges.
For example, showers often experience noticeable bulging when wearing swimwear. While many guys may enjoy the attention or the assumption that they’re well-endowed, it can feel awkward or overly revealing for others. If that’s the case, wearing looser bottoms or supportive underwear can provide more comfort.
Meanwhile, growers may struggle with feelings of inadequacy, especially when their flaccid size doesn’t show much of a bulge compared to that of others. In social settings, this can even become the subject of teasing or jokes if someone notices.
If you’re currently struggling with this, it’s important to shift your mindset. You’re okay, and your penis is still completely normal. It just changes more between flaccid and erect states. And remember, as long as you know what you’re doing in the bedroom, size doesn’t matter.
Takeaway
Since the penis is often tied to ideas of manhood, it’s no surprise that many guys worry whether they’re a grower or a shower. But here’s the truth: it doesn’t matter which category you fall into.
As long as your penis functions properly, there’s no need to stress over whether your flaccid size is “showing” enough.
However, if you find yourself feeling intense anxiety or pressure around this, it might be helpful to speak with a therapist. Getting support can offer clarity and help you better understand and manage your emotions.
