Bicycle Riding and Erectile Dysfunction: A Review

Abstract

Introduction For many years, reports in the literature have implicated bicycle riding as causing increased risk of erectile dysfunction (ED). Perineal compression during cycling has been associated with the development of sexual complications. Aim To review current literature on the rationale for ED from bicycle riding and outcome of bicycle riding on erectile function and to present available research on preventative measures specifically regarding bicycle riding. Methods A systematic comprehensive literature review. Results There is a significant relationship between cycling-induced perineal compression leading to vascular, endothelial, and neurogenic dysfunction in men and the development of ED. Research on female bicyclists is very limited but indicates the same impairment as in male bicyclists. Preventative measures including use of a properly fitted bicycle, a riding style with a suitable seat position and an appropriate bicycle seat can help prevent impairment of erectile function. Conclusions There is a need for further research on safe bicycle and bicycle seat design and investigations that address the underlying mechanisms leading to cycling-related sexual dysfunction in both male and female bicyclists.

Bicycle Riding and the Bedroom: Can Riding a Bicycle Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

“…Downward tilting of the saddle also decreases the anterior perineal stress but may lead to increased pressure on the hands and to instability on the seat, forcing the rider to continually move backward. 31,32 Concerning the role of a perineal hole, it has been shown that a central cut-out did not lessen perineal pressure but, on the contrary, could increase it. 16,[33][34][35] Sommer et al 32 attributes this to the fact that the positioning of the hole might not be well understood by manufacturers.…”

Salute sessuale maschile e femminile, attività motoria e sport

“…Il delicato equilibrio fra strutture muscolari, vascolari e nervose viene alterato dalla pressione e dalle temperatura cui gli atleti espongono il perineo. Per quanto la ricerca sia finalizzata a produrre sellini più "performanti", per gli atleti di entrambi i sessi esiste il concreto rischio di andare incontro a disfunzioni sessuali su base traumatica [14,15].…”

Organic Causes of Erectile Dysfunction in Men Under 40

“…This concept has been supported by the association between bicycling and ED. This relationship was first noted in a number of case reports, but later cross-sectional studies found that young men who bicycle more than 3 hours a week have an increased risk of developing ED [7]. Bicycling has been shown to reduce the peak cavernosal artery systolic velocity to 0 due to perineal pressure from bicycle seats, and is thought to temporarily occlude penile vessels and lead to focal arterial occlusive disease [7].…”