How To Choose from FTM Prosthetics? | FTM Packers

Many FTM (female) and nonbinary people choose to wear a packer. "Packing" is defined as using a phallic object to make a bulge to give the appearance of having a penis or bulge. It can help solve many people's bottom dysphoria. (The feeling of unease when someone's gender doesn't align with their sex.) But how do we choose a prosthetic to feel like our own with how many options are available? Here's what to consider when you're wondering how to choose from FTM prosthetics.

• 1. Budget

I think it's important to work backward since everyone's budget is different. Have you saved for a $150, $200, $300 prosthetic, or a $50 prosthetic? Once you've got your number that you know you have to work with, then you can keep that in mind when you're considering the following.

• 2. Style

When I first started searching for the right FTM prosthetic for me, I thought it was a little strange to be able to pick out and choose which penis was right for me? Usually, you're dealt with your cards and you don't get to try all of them on. But in this case, you've gotten a wide range of options. I also remember growing up and using the fact that I could let a lady, "choose what she wanted" as a comeback for those being hateful to me. 

Some of those styles include, but sure ain't limited to, circumcised, uncircumcised, hair, testicles, or no scrotum at all! These options are all optional and usually based on your personal preference. 

• 3. Size

One of the great myths is that the bigger you are the more people are attracted to you. This is so far from the truth. I've spoken with many people that say 7 inches is too much! I say this for the short transguys like myself that feel unproportionate with a large packer. And each of these is a personal preference whether you want a noticeable bulge that's totally up to you! I would keep in mind that the average penis size according to the average flaccid penis is 3.61 inches in length; the average erect penis is 5.16 long. 

• 4. Function

Now that we've covered style and size, it's time to talk function. Out of all of the FTM prosthetics, how do you choose what you'll need? Well, the first step is to think if you experience any dysphoria from my being naturally "equipt". If it’s in the bathroom and you don't want to have to use the stall, get one that can be used as an STP (stand to pee) device instead like the Handy. Is it in the bedroom that you get frustrated with your body? Then maybe it would be beneficial to get one that can be used for play as well such as the Squire.

There are even some that come with pleasure ridges so it potentially could be used as a 4 in one prosthetic. The fourth of which being physically pleasurable without a partner. These ridges are designed to stimulate the wearer as they please others. If you are a trans* person who is on HRT (hormone replacement therapy) you may experience an increased size of your anatomy below the belt. These ridges will help you feel pleasure at the same time as your partner which is important to many trans* people in their sexual experiences. 

• 5. Shade

Skin tones are a little trickier as many try to compare their skin tone with a photograph. The difficult thing in product photography is that it's important to capture the actual skin tone so that people can better predict which is for them. It's also important to notice (if possible) the photos that have filters or heavy edits so that’ll need to be taken into consideration as well. 

• 6. Secure Prosthetic

While I wish I could just snap my fingers and have all products stay without fail or worry, I cannot promise that. Each person has different needs for their prosthetic. My job is to let you know the options and let you choose for yourself. Once again, budget is something to consider here because not everyone can afford to have 8 pairs of $20 boxers. However, if you’re looking for more affordable options, Tranzwear is known for helping customers seek confidence because they believe “confidence is a goal worth seeking”.

Common attachment options include:

• ● Adhesive (via self-adhesive sheets)
• ● Jockstraps 
• ● Snug Briefs 
• ● Harness 
• ● Packing Boxer Briefs (with a built-in pouch for FTM packers)

Because of the type of products offered, many cannot do refunds as these are in a private area. That’s why it's important to consider budget, style, size, function, shade and how to attach when you are searching for how to choose from FTM prosthetics. No matter which prosthetic you end up choosing, you are ultimately testing it out. You might not get the prosthetic of your dreams on the first try but you will be able to notice what you love about some products and what you'd like to be better on the next try. This is your experience and your body so it's up to you what you'd like to do with it.

Much love and light,

Aaron Capener