Vol 10, No 1 (2025)
Review article
Published online: 2025-03-11

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Does bike riding lead to male subfertility and sexual dysfunction?

Adrian Borkowski1, Mateusz Sawicki2, Klara Wojciechowska1, Monika Turek2, Aleksandra Jaroń1, Katarzyna Jastrzębska1, Maria Witkowska3, Joanna Skotnicka3, Karolina Błaszczak4, Aleksandra Misarko5
Med Res J 2025;10(1):103-108.

Abstract

Cycling is one of the most popular means of transport and a widely practised leisure pursuit. Although similar
to everyday casual bike riding, sports cycling can have a different impact on health. The higher physical
strain during sports cycling improves overall fitness and significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular
diseases and diabetes, however, there are some negative side effects. Intensive cycling is often linked to
genital numbness, reduced semen parameters, and erectile dysfunction. Factors such as increased scrotal
temperature, perineal pressure, and vibrations exerted on the perineum while riding on uneven surfaces
contribute to the development of these health problems. This review aims to analyse recent studies and
determine whether sports cycling can cause erectile dysfunction or infertility.

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