Cycling myths put to the test: What’s the truth behind the health myths?

The rumour persists, and you come across it time and time again: anyone who cycles regularly risks sexual health problems. Stories are circulating amongst both men and women about a reduced libido, skin irritation in the genital area, physical impairments and fertility problems caused by sitting in the saddle. But how much truth is there to this?

Prof. Dr Sabine Brookman-May has the facts at her fingertips. She teaches urology at LMU Munich, is a specialist in urology and a sports medicine doctor – and has been a passionate road cyclist for three decades.

Myth 1: “If men cycle a lot, they’ll develop erectile problems”

“To date, there is no scientific study proving that cycling causes long-term erectile dysfunction. Whilst this is one of the most widespread myths, it is simply untrue,” explains Brookman-May. What can happen in the short term, however, is that after a particularly long ride – when you spend several hours or half a day on your bike – the pressure on the pelvic floor area can cause slight irritation to the nerves and a minor reduction in blood flow.

A temporary impairment of erectile function may occur in the hours following cycling, but this usually resolves itself. Some studies also point to possible temporary erectile dysfunction. At the same time, they also demonstrate preventive effects in men who spend less than three hours a day in the saddle.

“In fact, cycling has an overall protective effect – in other words, it helps prevent the development of erectile dysfunction in the long term,” says the expert. This is because factors such as being overweight, high blood pressure, diabetes and smoking can all contribute to vascular damage and, consequently, to the development of erectile dysfunction. Almost all of these factors can be positively influenced by regular endurance exercise. People who cycle regularly on a road bike strengthen their cardiovascular system and help prevent atherosclerosis. This also applies to the blood vessels responsible for supplying the erectile tissue.

Conclusion: Anyone who cycles in moderation need not worry about this compromising their erectile function in the long term. Should any temporary problems arise, adjustments to the saddle, handlebar height and type of bike can help.

Myth 2: “A numb sensation in the groin area in both men and women is a warning sign”

Yes, this numb sensation does indeed exist. It occurs relatively frequently. “A temporary tingling or numbness after a long ride is nothing out of the ordinary,” Brookman-May also confirms. It usually goes away again. “There is absolutely no cause for concern that this will lead to permanent damage to blood circulation or nerves – that is completely unfounded.”

The cause: pressure in the perineal area can irritate or temporarily compress the nerves and blood vessels running close to the surface. This region is particularly sensitive in both men and women. According to Brookman-May, one should not overestimate feelings of numbness, but neither should one ignore them completely. The duration and frequency are key. A brief loss of sensation after a long ride is quite different from numbness following every single ride, or symptoms that persist over a longer period.

However, if the numbness occurs regularly after every ride or persists for a long time, this is no reason to train even harder or to get used to the discomfort. “Rather, it’s a sign that there’s room for improvement – whether it’s the saddle itself, the saddle adjustment, your riding position or your cycling kit,” explains Brookman-May.

Conclusion: A temporary feeling of numbness is nothing out of the ordinary. However, it may be a sign that some adjustments are advisable.

Myth 3: “Cycling affects fertility”

“There is no scientific evidence to suggest that cycling impairs fertility in the long term. This can be ruled out – even with ambitious, intensive training,” Brookman-May clarifies. What does happen, however, is that very high training loads at professional level or exposure to extreme heat can temporarily reduce sperm quality.

An important point for women: “Female cyclists often experience menstrual irregularities or, in extreme cases, their periods stop altogether – and then, of course, their fertility is also reduced.” Brookman-May draws attention to the phenomenon known as RED-S, which is attracting increasing attention. It affects both sexes – and is a topic that has already been covered in detail in the newsletter. Anyone who does a lot of sport must also ensure they eat enough.

Conclusion: Cycling – when practised in moderation – does not lead to infertility in either men or women. If you have any concerns, you should consult a urologist or gynaecologist – but do not blame cycling for it.

Myth 4: “Saddles and sex – that’s a men’s issue; women don’t have any problems with it”

Wrong. “The opposite is true,” says Brookman-May. “We women actually suffer from genital discomfort more frequently. And we’re often used to assuming that numbness or pain is just part of the deal.” Studies back this up: in a large-scale US study, 44 per cent of the female cyclists surveyed reported such feelings of numbness.

Brookman-May speaks from personal experience: when she took up road cycling three decades ago, only men’s saddles were available. There were no other women in her circle with whom she could discuss these issues. People simply accepted that pain was part and parcel of the sport. “But that is precisely what shouldn’t be taken for granted. Recurring numbness, a burning sensation, inflammation, pelvic floor pain – these are not side effects that should be tolerated.”

But is there even such a thing as the ‘right’ women’s saddle? “You don’t find the ideal saddle by looking at the ‘men’s’ or ‘women’s’ categories, but by considering your own anatomy and how you personally feel whilst cycling. We women differ from one another anatomically just as much as we do from some men. I would therefore not advise gender-specific saddles – but would always recommend finding the saddle that suits you individually,” advises the expert.

A good starting point is to measure the distance between the sit bones to determine the appropriate width. If possible, you should also try out different saddles. It is important that the pressure is borne by the sit bones, not by soft tissue or the perineal area. And often, in addition to the saddle itself, the height, angle and position need to be adjusted – because, as Brookman-May says, “even a good saddle can still be uncomfortable if it is incorrectly adjusted”.

Conclusion: No gender is spared. Any symptoms should prompt you to take action. If they persist, it is best to consult your GP or gynaecologist.

Myth 5: “Cycling can increase the risk of prostate cancer”

No, there is no increased risk of prostate cancer. “Quite the opposite,” says Brookman-May, citing scientific studies which show a reduced risk among endurance athletes. “The reason this topic keeps coming up is that, as cycling puts pressure on the prostate, the so-called prostate-specific antigen may be released in greater quantities and become detectable in the blood.”

If the PSA level is then measured by a urologist – for example, as part of a routine check-up or to investigate a suspected case of cancer – it may be temporarily elevated due to cycling beforehand, which could lead to false-positive results, unnecessary anxiety and further investigations. “It therefore makes sense for cyclists to avoid intensive or prolonged cycling sessions for at least one or two days before the test – so as not to inadvertently cause elevated levels.”

Conclusion: As a form of physical activity, cycling tends to have a preventative effect against prostate cancer. However, it is best to leave your bike in the garage for at least two days before a PSA test.

Myth 6: “Cycling puts a damper on your sex life”

Quite the opposite, in fact. “For both sexes, cycling has a very positive impact on sexual health,” says Brookman-May. “Regular physical activity improves vascular function, supports hormonal balance and reduces stress. Men and women who exercise regularly are, on the whole, more likely to report satisfactory sexual health.”

Smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure and a lack of exercise – these are factors that can lead to difficulties in one’s sex life. Studies also suggest that excessive exercise can lead to a reduced libido. However: “There is a positive correlation between cycling and sexuality. That is the key point,” the expert summarises.

​Scientific review: Dr Katharina Kremser (doctor)