Bicycling Impotence
It is often noted that riding a bike for prolonged periods of time may have effects on your erection - thus the term bicycling impotence. Bike riding decreases the blood flow to the base of the penis because of added pressure. Termed perineal vascular compression, it affects long-distance riders and leads to a transient numbness, lasting from hours to days. Older men are more at risk because of decreased elasticity in their blood vessels.
Signs and symptoms suggesting bicycling impotence include numbness in any part of the penis; tingling in the perineum or penis; feeling of tightness at the glans (tip of the penis); decreased urinary flow; and impotence after a ride.
Prevention of bicycling impotence
Ways to decrease the incidence of this potentially problematic condition include: taking frequent breaks when riding for long distances; getting up off the saddle often; changing your body position frequently; and never remain seated going over bumps in the road.
Also, choose a saddle designed to help protect your perineum from added pressure while riding. Padded bike shorts may also help, but over padded pants may cause bicycling impotence.
