Men’s Health

Is cycling bad for men’s health?

With 2023 marking the 100th Annual Bike Week from the 5th-11th June this year, cycling has seen an increase in popularity over the last few years. Cycling is a fun and effective form of exercise, but some worry that pressure from a bicycle saddle can cause urinary, sexual, prostate problems and can even increase your risk of prostate cancer. Some data from clinical studies shows that side effects of bicycle riding in men are most often genital numbness. Rarer effects can include infertility, impotence, blood in the urine, twisting of the spermatic cord, prostatitis, or inflammation of the prostate, and elevated PSA levels. But do the pros of an active lifestyle outweigh the risks? Consultant urologist Simon Woodhams (pictured above) explains that, ”If you have a chronic prostate problem that’s provoked by using a conventional seat, you can switch to a recumbent seat. ‘Noseless’ bicycle saddles can reduce numbness, pressure and genital discomfort in male cyclists. A traditional bike saddle puts 25% to 40% of your body's weight on the nerves and blood vessels down there, but a no-nose saddle shifts that weight toward the sit bones.”

Mr Woodhams concludes that, “Men who get the most exercise have a lower incidence of prostate cancer when compared with men who get little or no exercise. Exercising on most days of the week can help you lower your risk of developing prostate cancer. Bicycle riding is an excellent form of exercise and will not increase your risk of prostate cancer. Other ways to reduce your risk of prostate cancer are staying at a healthy weight and eating a wellbalanced, healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods.” www.westsussexurology.co.uk