Female cyclists report better sexual experiences than non-cyclists

A recent study on the sexual health of female cyclists reveals that hours in the saddle does not adversely affect sexual functions. In fact, women who cycle regularly reported better sexual experiences than those who don’t according to the study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine. Respondents did experience more saddle related issues which are almost always preventable with proper set-up

Participants were sourced by researchers from the University of California San Fransisco from major cycling, swimming and running groups in the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Cyclists were divided into two separate groups, high-intensity riders who rode more than three times a week for more than 40 kilometres and low-intensity cyclists who ride less than that.

In total, 3,118 women completed the survey. A total of 13 per cent were high-intensity cyclists, 53 per cent were low-intensity cyclists and 34 per cent were not cyclists at all.  Survey participants were asked about their bike type, saddle, type of apparel they use as well as the type of riding they did.

The survey confirmed the association between cycling and problems commonly associated with poor saddle selection or set up such as genital numbness and saddle sores. Other disadvantages included a greater likelyhood to experience urinary tract infections. The research showed no association between cycling intensity or duration and sexual or urinary function. Women who biked frequently in fact reported better sexual experiences.

“We found that lifetime miles ridden were associated with better sexual function, as measured by a common, validated questionnaire,” University of California San Fransisco medical student Thomas W. Gaither explained. “If we could find a way to prevent saddle sores and infections, we believe that cycling might improve the sexual health of women.”

The cyclists scored higher on the Female Sexual Function Index and reported lower odds of sexual dysfunction than the non-cyclists leading to the conclusion that they showed higher sexual function.