The technological wonder of the 3D printer. Used for printing synthetic hearts, artificial limbs and now apparently the perfect penis. It was only a matter of time.

In a recent study conducted in America, “scientists” printed out a variety of phalluses and asked women to rate which they prefer for a long term partner, and for a one night stand. The researchers at UCLA and the University of New Mexico had previously shown the women crude 2D drawings of dicks to find the champion penis, but determined that there’s no substitute for staring one in the face.

Independent

The study – published in peer reviewed PLOS One – turned out some interesting results. Apparently, women prefer a penis that is just over average length when in a relationship.

Out of a possible 33 erect penis-like models (see below), the average length chosen for a long-term partner was 6.3 inches, with a girth of 4.8 inches. Women looking for a one night stand chose a length of 6.4 inches and a girth of 5 inches. To put that into context, the average penis in the UK measures around 5.5 inches when at full mast according to the Indepentent.

Thingiverse

Whether you’re feeling proud or concerned, take comfort in these words by researcher Dr. Nicole Prause:

Since context matters, men should be thinking ‘fit’ rather than ‘fat’ with respect to their penis size… women may prefer different sizes for different reasons at different times, so chances are very good any guy is someone’s ideal for the relationship type they are seeking.

It’s thought that this is the most comprehensive study ever conducted on the matter, because a 3D printed penis is the next best thing to a real penis. All 33 penises used in the study have been uploaded to the website Thingiverse so if you’ve got a 3D printer, feel free to conduct your own weird experiments at home.