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What Is Clitoris Enlargement?

By Angela Farrer
Updated: Jun 04, 2024
Views: 378,609
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The term “clitoris enlargement” typically refers to a form of intentional female body modification that is designed to extend the length and width of the clitoris. The term can also be applied to a genetic abnormality known as a macroclitoris, which causes baby girls to be born with large protrusions or swellings on or around the clitoral region. Women who intentionally try to enlarge this part of their body are usually trying to increase their sexual pleasure; the clitoris is one of the most sensitive and excitable parts of the female body. Some women use pumps to try to enlarge the space themselves, or they may also undergo hormone therapy to encourage growth. In some cases enlargement can also be a result of steroid abuse, and it isn’t always intentional in these cases.

Pumps

A pump is usually the simplest method for women to achieve clitoris enlargement, sometimes also known as clitoromegaly. These devices are widely available to purchase online or in some adult-oriented shops and can be used at home. Results of using one of these devices can vary based on individual anatomy, the frequency and rigor of use, and existing clitoris size.

They work by putting pressure on the tissues surrounding the clitoris, which can cause swelling and enlargement — at least in the short term. In most cases the results are just temporary, and there are some risks of damaging the nerve endings in the sensitive surrounding tissue. To avoid this side effect, women trying clitoris enlargement with one of these pumps should only do so according to recommended guidelines and be careful not to use the tool too aggressively.

Hormone Therapy

Regular testosterone supplements are another means of clitoris enlargement, and usually take the form of oral or injectable supplements as concentrated topical creams. Testosterone is a sex hormone that is most commonly produced by males, but usually exists in trace amounts in females, too. Women who boost their levels intentionally through supplementation often see a swelling of their genital regions, but may also experience things like a deepened voice and thicker, more apparent body hair. A lot depends on the individual and the strength of the supplements.

It’s sometimes possible to buy testosterone cream in pharmacies, but these aren’t always suitable for use on the female sex organs. Only some types of testosterone creams are prescribed by gynecologists and women’s health specialists, usually only after the substances pass required lab tests for safety and effectiveness. In most cases it’s best for women to err on the side of safety and only boost their hormone levels under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.


As a Result of Steroid Use

Drugs in the steroid category can also sometimes cause enlargement as a side effect of muscle building and other endurance-related functions. The results of steroid use can be quite different from one woman to the next, depending on the existing amounts of natural testosterone in the body. Women with low levels of this hormone often report decreased sex drive and may seek testosterone supplements as a solution. Growth of the clitoris is a frequent side effect, as are increased blood flow to the entire genital region and heightened sensitivity.

Genetic Abnormalities

When enlargement occurs naturally at birth, it can range from minor, or barely noticeable, to very pronounced. This usually happens as a result of a genetic abnormality called “ambiguous genitalia.” In more serious cases, clitoral reduction surgery is considered a necessary measure to create a “normal” female genital appearance. Later, hormone therapy at puberty may also be recommended if too much natural testosterone is present.

Risks and Side Effects

Though there can be benefits to an enlarged clitoris, there are also a number of risks and downsides. This part of the body is very sensitive and is dense in nerve endings. Procedures that require consistent pressure or force can damage the nerves, which can actually reduce sensation — even if the surface area is technically larger. There are also risks that come with taking hormone supplements, particularly if they aren’t dosed properly. Women who are concerned about the size of their clitoris or who want to explore enlargement options are usually best served by talking to a professional before taking things into their own hands.

Other Clitoral Enlargement Due to Testosterone

We’ve already mentioned women who deliberately enlarge their clitorises through hormone therapy. But not everyone who has a clitoris and wants to increase its size identifies as a cisgender woman. Many transgender men and nonbinary individuals have the same desire, but this is typically just one part of their larger goals. To understand why, it's worth looking at transgender identity as well as the medical and emotional needs that come with it.

A Quick Guide to Transgender Identity

When babies are born, they’re assigned male or female based on their external anatomy. Cisgender people have gender identities that match their assigned sex. A transgender individual is someone whose internal deeply held sense of gender is different than what’s on the birth certificate. Some transgender people know that they’re not their assigned sex from an early age. Others do not discover this until they are older. This experience is different for every person.

Transgender women were assigned male at birth, but they are women. They have female gender identities and may choose feminine gender expressions. Transgender men were assigned female at birth, but they are men. Similarly, they identify as male and often skew toward more masculine appearance and expression.

While some transgender people identify as either male or female, others do not. They may feel that their innate sense of gender doesn’t fit either category. Many use the term “nonbinary” to connote that their gender doesn’t fit the male-female binary. This isn’t a new concept or a purely Western idea — there are third-gender communities in India and some Native American societies, for example.

Medically Assisted Transition

You may have heard some transgender people say that they were “born in the wrong bodies.” That description does not resonate with every transgender individual. Living authentically means something different to each person, but it often involves aligning one’s gender expression to match the identity. It can also mean seeking gender-affirming medical therapies to shift how their bodies look and function.

Not everyone can medically transition, and some desire not to. But for many trans people, gender-affirming therapies are vital to their wellbeing. It can help alleviate gender dysphoria — the emotional and mental distress from a mismatch between one’s gender identity and the sex assigned at birth. Medically transitioning may help a trans person feel more “at home” in their body.

Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapies

Medical transition can include many kinds of therapies. The most usual form is HRT, which is short for hormone replacement therapy. If the individual is already an adult, you can think of this as “second puberty.” In other words, the new hormones trigger physiological changes. Some people experience mood swings as one does during puberty.

For transgender women, HRT typically involves feminizing hormones such as estrogen. Other hormones may also be prescribed. Progestogens mimic the function of progesterone, and antiandrogens suppress the production of testosterone.

Testosterone Therapy for Transgender Men

Hormone therapy for transgender men looks a little different. Their goals are to have their bodies more closely match a masculine appearance, expression, and gender identity. This usually involves taking testosterone through injection, implants, or transdermal methods like patches and creams.

Clitoral enlargement due to testosterone is not the primary reason that trans men go on hormone therapy. They chiefly desire the masculinizing effects: facial hair growth, deeper voices, redistribution of body fat, increased muscle, and more. Other more subtle changes from testosterone therapy may include heavier brows, a wider jaw, and smaller lips. Some begin to experience male-pattern baldness after beginning testosterone therapy. After several months, menstruation and ovulation completely stop.

Some trans men take a weekly testosterone dose, while others take theirs biweekly. Either way, the usual dose is moderate. The goal is to supply enough to improve each man’s wellbeing, which often results in bodily testosterone levels that match those of cisgender men. A typical biweekly testosterone injection is about 100 milliliters, while male bodybuilders who use it for muscle gains may take 600 milligrams or more per week.

How To Enlarge Clitoris

For transgender men, clitoral growth is a side benefit of testosterone therapy. This is analogous to some of the changes that cisgender males experience during puberty. Depending on the man, this growth can be significant. Some trans men experience substantial size increases. When the clitoris has stopped growing in these cases, it more closely resembles a small penis.

It’s impossible to predict how much “bottom growth” will take place. Some trans men who want greater enlargement may use pumps. Each person’s pumping regimen may be different, but it’s important to follow safety guidelines and use a lubricant. Other trans men may use topical DHT creams to encourage growth. There’s no clinical data about trans men and DHT cream, so you may want to consult a trusted medical professional.

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Discussion Comments
By Lizmartin — On Oct 25, 2021

What is the best testosterone cream to rub on my clitoris? And how can I get it ? I asked my gyn for one and he wouldn’t prescribe it!

By anon1002462 — On Nov 25, 2019

I started taking a 5% "T" cream for my low testosterone. When my wife started experiencing menopause symptoms, I told her how women use it to alleviate and avoid the symptoms. She started using one tenth of what I use daily on her clitoris, which was previously very, very small -- smaller than a pea. It's been six months, and her clitoris is growing nicely. (big turn on for me!)

Her sex drive has increased tremendously. We went from 3 times a week (lots of manual sex) to six times a week, full penetration, (it is a natural birth control, no more pulling out). And the best part is: She has an orgasm every single time! She started fantasizing, big time, and watching porn to "get in the mood".

We are beginning to take the first steps in this incredible sexual journey. And we are much closer as a result. I was ridiculed growing up because of my sexuality. I shunned that part of myself. My wife is helping me come to understand that it's totally OK. (She has always had gay friends)

As far as I am concerned: This stuff is a miracle worker.

By anon1000353 — On Aug 30, 2018

I use a steroid cream and my clitoris is four inches in length when enlarged. My boy friend loves it and can't keep his mouth off it!

By lillyb — On Jun 29, 2018

What is the name of the vaginal testosterone cream?

By anon996676 — On Sep 27, 2016

Will this testosterone cream enlarge a penis?

By anon994391 — On Feb 05, 2016

My girl friend has been using the 5 percent testosterone cream twice a day on her clitoris for three months. About a month ago she added a quality clitoris pump and pumps two times a day. Her clitoris has regular erections and it has doubled in size. She is now able to have multiple orgasms and has learned to squirt, which we have never done before. She is way more responsive now and her enlarged clitoris is a super turn on to me. I say keep it up.

By anon993682 — On Dec 05, 2015

I had a friend recommend taking testosterone because I was always tired, depressed, and everything a mother can be. It was the best advice I ever got.

I’m 40 now and have been using it for some years. I take the testosterone 3 percent cream. I have had no side effects but my clitoris is larger, which is a plus because it’s so much more sensitive, and orgasms come very fast and are much stronger. Sorry to be so graphic but it’s the truth. I think it’s the best thing ever. I feel better, and I have no depression anymore. I’m in a better mood, and my husband is happy because I’m happy. I want sex more than he does now. So I have a few toys that I enjoy using. What a wonderful change it has made in my life.

I originally started with a 2 percent testosterone cream and then I asked the doctor if I could go to 3 percent, and that gave me much better results such as more energy, better mood, nice muscle tone, high sex drive, amazing orgasms, and my body fat dropped. I look so much more fit and have a lean waist line. I look like I’m 15 years younger than all my friends. Everyone is asking me what I am doing because I look so good.

My husband and I have gotten so much closer because I feel great about myself. I feel sexy, and our sex is great now. He attracted to me like when we first met. It's funny because I actually think about sex more than he does now. Before steroids I lost my sex drive. When I got married in my 20s I had a very high sex drive but after aging and having kids, your body changes. Giving birth put a toll on your body and changes it for life. I now have more sex drive than I did at 20, which is crazy. Luckily they make good vibrators these days.

I think there are much worse side effects with other drugs you take than testosterone. I would recommend taking 3 percent instead of 2 percent because it made a big difference, and if you are taking it you may as well work out and join a gym. That’s why athletes take it.

I don’t see any reason not to at least try it. Once you do, you will wonder why you haven’t done this years ago. Also give it a month or two before it kicks in. Don't expect results as soon as you take it. Some women notice it right away but most don't. But always get regular check ups from your doctor so he has a good eye on your health. Always best to avoid health risks. Get regular blood work every few months when you are taking this stuff.

By anon993559 — On Nov 24, 2015

I have been a widow for a year and desperately miss the closeness of my husband. Solo sex is the only way I can relieve my frustrations and I am learning so many new things on surfing the net.

Now that I am in my sixties my clitoris is harder to get to orgasm so the chance of a clitoral pump and urethral sounding sounds exciting. I'm not sure that I would take the plunge and pay for sex, as I doubt that another male would even come in third to my one and only mate and lover.

By anon992665 — On Sep 22, 2015

I love to see my friend's clitoris which is so much larger than mine.

When aroused she has a clitoris that is just like a small circumcised penis and stands apart from her labia by about 2.5 inches. It is not too sensitive and can be rubbed to orgasm fairly quickly but she insists that her real orgasm is from her cervix and she is not fully satisfied unless she has an orgasm inside following penetration.

Some other friends only ever experience clitoral orgasms.

Is this unusual, or are some women bi-orgasmic?

By anon992179 — On Aug 19, 2015

SkittisH - Look up "penis envy." It's not about a man envying the penis of another man, it's about the supposed desire of women to be endowed with a penis. It's Freudian. In my opinion, he was wrong but the term "penis envy" comes from Freud.

By anon991366 — On Jun 15, 2015

I have a friend who started pumping with a clitoral vacuum pump and also was prescribed a compounded testosterone cream of 5 percent about five months ago. She is in her mid twenties and I can say that her clitoris was very small before she began. She was frustrated that she couldn't reach orgasm easily and it was very difficult to have an orgasm at all.

Now it is five months later and her clitoris has grown to nearly three inches erect and the girth is about the same as my little finger. She gets frequent erections and has multiple orgasms now. She has even been able to ejaculate (squirt) for the first time in her life. She has outgrown the original tube and is now working with a larger clitoral tube. To say she is happy is an understatement. She has had no negative side effects with the testosterone cream. I have heard that with pellets and injections the problems of hair growth and voice lowering can happen.

By anon991242 — On Jun 06, 2015

As for my experience, you don't need any stuff to make your peanut to become enlarged or even to become more sensitive. The best thing to do is having a conversation with your sex partner on how to be more focused on clitoral massage by finger or by tongue that will arouse the whole electric power all over your body and that will likewise trigger the enlargement of your clitoris.

By anon991051 — On May 23, 2015

My friend has been using testosterone cream and a vacuum pump for three months. She pumps once or twice a day and directly applies the cream to her clitoris twice a day. Her growth has been very noticeable and she gets clitoral erections all the time. Her orgasms are much more frequent and the enjoyment of having a visible erection makes her happy.

Her clitoris in over three months is now close to 2 1/2 inches in length and as big in circumference as my index finger. She is now able to have multiple orgasms and is able to squirt for the first time in her life.

By annie83 — On Apr 24, 2015

A pump will temporarily enlarge your clitoris, but if you want permanent enlargement testosterone will give you the best results. But you may also see more body and facial hair, voice change, increased sex drive, etc.

Just remember, while most of the other side effects will reverse after you stop taking the testosterone, your clitoral growth will be permanent. It may shrink a bit, but to nowhere near its previous size. The amount of growth will vary. Usually the younger you are, the more growth you'll get. However, that isn't always the case. I've been taking oral testosterone for almost 18 months and I also use testosterone cream rubbed directly onto my clitoris, and the amount of growth has been exceptional. When erect it's just under 3".

If you're going to go the testosterone route, be very careful and be aware of other possible side effects besides clitoral growth.

By anon977018 — On Nov 07, 2014

I have always admired a friend's clitoris, which is considerably larger than mine. When aroused, her clitoris extends some one and a half inches beyond her inner labia and looks just like a circumcised penis. The glans is keretonised and not too sensitive to touch and she is able to bring herself to orgasm at will by rubbing the head and extending the shaft.

I believe that this is the result of regular masturbation in her teens. Her inner lips are like butterfly wings and are a pretty pink color.

I can't wait to have a similar experience with my own small clitoris. Can you please help me to achieve this?

By anon275334 — On Jun 17, 2012

I own a clitoral pump and absolutely love it.

By anon221881 — On Oct 13, 2011

It's not hard to use a clit pump safely in the same way as it's not hard to do penis enlargement Exercise carefully and safely. All the information is on the web free for the taking. Do your research!

As for clit reduction. Please, no!

By TheGraham — On Jun 28, 2011

@SkittisH - Not only is there the possibility of damaging your nerve endings, but imagine how uncomfortable this is! Many women can't even handle the discomfort from a breast pump during the nursing age of their babies, and I can imagine that most would find the idea of a pump used for clitoris enlargement or vagina enlargement to be just plain strange.

I know I find the idea of a clitoris pump to be strange. If I ever was presented with the chance to use one, I would be too squeamish to try it,e ven if I did have some strange belief that my clitoris was too small and that I needed to help it along in getting to a more acceptable size.

While I don't personally have any trouble with this, I don't think wanting a larger clitoris is that strange of a desire, especially if yours is small. Though you hear more about male doubts, concerns and vanity regarding the appearance of their genitals, many women are just as self-conscious.

In addition to taking supplements, putting on creams, and apparently using scary pump-style devices, women have the options of getting cosmetic plastic surgery on the genitals to enlarge the clitoris and also to reduce the inner lips and plump up the outer ones. To some people, this stuff is really important.

By gimbell — On Jun 27, 2011

@aishia - You're absolutely right -- steroids and hormone replacement therapy that do things like enlarge the clitoris are in fact making a woman more manly than she was before.

One of my good friends for several years is female to male transgendered. He has taken hormone replacement therapy to get a lower, manly voice, be able to grow facial hair, and stop having menstrual periods. I was curious how this transformation could happen, so I looked it up, and your talk of hormones determining gender is right on the ball, too.

Of course, hormones are supposed to determine gender when you are an embryo; the hormones that determine whether you are male or female help determine how your bone structure will be, and other telling factors in whether you were originally born male or female, regardless of what gender you end up becoming.

Back to the topic at hand -- the clitoris. Part of hormone therapy for female to male transgendered individuals involves making the genitals look as male as possible. This is done partly with surgery, but primarily with hormone treatments that enlarge the clitoris quite a bit, making it a similar shape to a penis.

Since blood flows to the clitoris during sex, creating a sort of clitoral erection, transgendered female to male people can feel more male by having functional male-type genitalia.

By aishia — On Jun 26, 2011

The information in the article about how steroids that cause typical manly traits, such as increased body hair, lower voice and facial hair growth, reminds me of this research I've been reading on how gender is produced by hormones.

The reproductive systems of men and women have very similar builds -- whether they produce eggs or sperm, and whether the "base" build an embryo has develops into a boy or a girl is determined by hormones.

Think about it -- the male testes and penis can be compared to female ovaries and clitoris. In fact, if you take steroids and your clitoris grows in size, the male hormones at work are doing exactly this -- changing the clitoris to be closer to the build of a penis.

This is why taking steroids that otherwise give you "manly" attributes also increase clitoris size -- because believe it or not, a larger clitoris is closer to a manly build on a hormonal level.

By SkittisH — On Jun 24, 2011

And here I thought the pump enlarger thing was only ever used for enlargement of the penis. While men get penis envy, I've never heard of women ever getting clitoris envy, so I'm a bit bemused as to why a woman would attempt this.

The article says that many women think a larger clitoris will result in stronger sexual sensations, but if you ask me, female sexual stimulation isn't just about the clitoris. Vaginal stimulation can also be used to achieve an orgasm -- some women are so sensitive that even kissing can have the same effect.

The phrase "bigger isn't always better" should definitely apply to something like this -- is it really worth it to you to possibly damage the nerve endings around your genitals to have a larger clitoris? It isn't to me!

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