So says Vinod Nargund from St Bartholomew's and Homerton Hospitals, London, in the urology journal BJU International. These problems include genital numbness, erectile dysfunction and sore skin in the genital area. Sperm function can also suffer because of excessive heat in the genital area. This is particularly true of regular cyclists and it is mountain bikers who suffer the most risk, apparently.
Mountain bikers show a greater number of genital problems than road cyclists. The bicycle saddle is in direct contact with the perineum and its underlying structures. It makes contact just behind the scrotum where the nerves and blood vessels enter the back of the scrotum and penis.
According to Nargund, the correct bike and saddle are vitally important. Well padded shorts are also essential. Adjusting the saddle height and how far forward or back it sits can help control these problems.
