If you've never shopped for a gender-affirming prosthetic, also known as a packer, you're not alone, and you might not have even known it was an option. Even if you've bought one before, you may still be figuring out what actually works for you.
Choosing a prosthetic can feel overwhelming. There are different styles, materials, and price points to weigh, and terms like gender-affirming prosthetic, packer, STP, and 3-in-1 may be unfamiliar at first. Don't worry: we'll walk through all of it.
This guide is here to help you understand your options, ask the right questions, and land on a choice that feels right for you.
(Note: This is an educational resource, not medical advice. It's informed by StealthMade.co, a trans-owned gender-affirming prosthetic company.)
A packer is a gender-affirming prosthetic worn in the underwear or against the body to create the appearance or feeling of a penis or genital bulge. For many trans masculine people it's made a real difference in how comfortable and affirmed they feel in their bodies.
Trans and gender diverse people wear packers for a range of reasons: some to reduce dysphoria, some to feel more aligned with their identity, others simply for the confidence of having the option to present their body the way that feels right for them.
Some people wear a prosthetic every day, while others only wear one occasionally. Some people try it out and decide packing is not for them. None of that is more “right” than the rest. What feels affirming is different for everyone!
Before you start comparing products, it helps to get clear on what matters most to you.
Think about how realistic you want it to look, what size feels right, and the texture or softness you're drawn to. Consider what you need it to do: are you after natural everyday packing, the ability to stand to pee, or both? And think about when you'll actually be wearing it, since daily use, travel, the gym, swimming, or intimacy all call for different materials and weights.
Sizing is worth thinking through here too. Most brands offer a size guide or measurements, and it's better to size based on what feels comfortable and natural for your body than to guess or go by what looks best in a photo.
Designed primarily for everyday wear and creating a natural appearance under clothing. Packers vary in size, weight, softness, realism, and materials, so personal preference plays a big role in finding the right fit.
Designed to allow many users to urinate while standing. STP devices can be affirming, but they often require practice and may work differently depending on each person's body.
Designed to combine multiple functions, such as packing, STP use, and intimate use. Combining functions can be convenient, but there may be trade-offs compared to a product designed specifically for one purpose.
Lightweight, breathable, and budget-friendly options. They can be a good choice for someone looking for a simple packing solution, though they typically do not offer STP functionality and may provide a different level of realism compared to silicone prosthetics.
Not all prosthetics on the market are made the same way, and material affects more than just how it feels:
A prosthetic doesn't work in isolation. Most people pair it with packing underwear, a harness, a jockstrap, body-safe adhesive, or some combination, depending on what fits their needs and comfort. Finding the right setup can take some trial and error, but the goal is simple: something secure, comfortable, and built around your lifestyle.
Cost is one of the biggest barriers for a lot of folks. Prices vary widely depending on materials, craftsmanship, functionality, and design.
A higher price doesn't necessarily mean a product will be the best fit for you, and there are affirming options at a range of price points. If cost is a concern, consider starting with a simpler foam or fabric packer while you figure out what size, shape, and feel you prefer.
Need help covering the cost? Point of Pride’s Thrive Fund provides microgrants to help trans and gender-diverse people cover often-overlooked expenses related to their health and well-being, including gender-affirming prosthetics and other supplies.
When choosing where to shop for a packer, look for companies that are transparent about their materials, sizing, care instructions, and customer support. Trans-owned and community-built brands can offer a more informed and comfortable shopping experience because they understand the needs of trans and gender-diverse customers.
Most options are available online, and many companies share more about their products, values, and customer experiences through social media. If privacy is important, check whether the company offers discreet packaging and billing. A trustworthy brand should make it easy to understand what you're buying, how to care for it, and where to get support if you have questions.
It's completely normal to feel unsure when choosing a prosthetic. Many people don't know exactly what they want until they've tried one and learned what actually feels comfortable. Preferences change over time, and that's okay. Your first prosthetic doesn't have to be your forever prosthetic. It can just be the start of figuring out what feels most affirming for you, and you may learn what you prefer through some trial and error. You’ve got this!
You deserve information that helps you make a choice that supports your confidence, comfort, and identity. If you'd like to see what a trans-owned option looks like in practice, you can browse StealthMade’s packers here.