Male infertility is responsible for at least one-third of all infertility cases, according to the American Pregnancy Association. One potential cause of male infertility is something normally considered healthy: cycling. Men who regularly cycle long distances may suffer from decreased sperm output or have damaged or unhealthy sperm. Taking a break from cycling may help preserve your fertility.
Cycling and Fertility
A 2009 study at the University of Cordoba Medical School in Spain found that sperm quality drops rapidly with rigorous cycling. Cyclists in the study who covered more than 186 miles per week had on average less than 4 percent normal-looking sperm--the level at which most men would need fertility treatment to conceive. All of the men had less than ten percent normal-looking sperm. A count of 15 percent to 20 percent is considered healthy.
Why Cycling Reduces Fertility
Cycling can damage your sperm output in two ways, through injury and heat. Jostling and jolting in the saddle can damage your scrotum and testes, halting normal sperm production. And your testicles need to stay cool to keep producing sperm. That's why they hang outside your body. Tight cycling pants and friction between your body and the saddle can overheat your scrotum.
Your Cycling Habits
Cycling to and from work most likely won't make you infertile. The cyclists in the Spanish study were professional athletes who had been cycling long distances for years. Still, the American Pregnancy Association recommends that men who are trying to conceive should stop cycling until they are successful. Sperm-safe alternatives include running and swimming.
Safer Cycling
If you can't swear off cycling completely, wear padded cycling shorts to avoid scrotal damage, and limit your time on the bike. Take short breaks to let your body cool down. It's also a good idea to stick to riding on smooth streets instead of going off-road, because you're less likely to bump and jolt your testicles.
If the Damage is Permanent
If you have sustained damage to your scrotum and testicles after years of cycling, the bad news is that it's likely irreversible. Talk to your doctor or fertility specialist if you are unable to conceive after six months of trying. He may order a sperm count or motility test to assess your fertility. If your healthy sperm count is low, don't despair. Assisted reproductive technologies like in-vitro fertilization often help couples with low sperm count infertility.
