Biking & Impotence

Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins and hormones that stimulate sex drive and sexual satisfaction in many individuals. However, sitting on a bicycle seat may cause erectile dysfunction and other genital/urethral conditions in some cyclists. Although it is not clear exactly how many men suffer from cycling-related impotence, a 2005 "European Urology" report found that only 13 to 24 percent of male cyclists experience erectile difficulties.

Mechanism

When we sit on a chair, our body is supported by our ischial tuberosities ("sit bones"), but narrow bike seats don't support the sit bones, forcing body weight onto the tender perineum (the spot between the pubic bone and anus). The nerves and arteries that provide sensation and blood flow to the genitals flow through the perineum, so compressing them cuts off oxygen supply and sensation in the penis. The "New York Times" reports that within 3 minutes, penile blood flow can be reduced by as much as 80 percent. Chronic compression causes perineal arteries to form clots, further restricting blood flow. With an insufficient blood supply, a cyclist can't achieve a full erection.

Statistics

According to a 2003 article in the "Independent," male cyclists are twice as likely to suffer from impotence. Cycling as little as 3 hours per week increases erectile dysfunction risk by 72 percent, a risk that grows with increased riding time, according to an article published in "Psychology Today." A Danish study found that 38 percent of men had trouble achieving an erection for 3 days after a bike race. Happily, most symptoms are temporary. The "New York Times" reported that only 5 percent of serious cyclists develop moderate to severe erectile dysfunction.

Women

The female perineum is similar to that of a man, so narrow seats may cause clitoral tingling and numbness. A 1999 study presented to the American Urological Society found that 34 percent of female cyclists suffered from genital numbness after riding, but the problem didn't interfere with intercourse frequency for women.

Prevention

A professional bike fit can relieve pressure on the perineum and increase overall comfort. Tilting the nose of the saddle down slightly and tilting the handlebars up puts the rider in a more upright position and distributes body weight behind the perineum. Another solution is to stand up every 10 minutes to restore blood flow to the groin. In most cases, numbness passes within a few hours after a ride, but in extreme cases symptoms can persist for several days. Surgery to restore the blood vessels is rarely necessary.

Saddle Design

Dr. Steven Schrader, a reproductive health expert at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health warns against using saddles with a cut out. Ergonomic seats force more weight onto a smaller area. Because blood vessels aren't centered in the perineum, these seats may put more pressure on the genital nerves and arteries. In an article published in the
"Journal of Sexual Medicine," Dr. Schrader describes how noseless saddles reduce the incidence of genital discomfort from 76 percent to 18 percent.