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.
