I do a lot of mountain biking can this affect my fertility?

There is evidence to show that doing a lot of cycling can affect a man’s impotence although there is no direct link between cycling and male infertility.

The longer you spend in the saddle the more likely this is to happen as pressure is put on the nerves and arteries in the male reproductive area (e.g. the penis and scrotum).

The saddle compresses these nerves which then lead to numbness in that area as well as problems with erectile functioning. Plus heat is generated in this area whilst cycling which can affect sperm count and function.

This equally affects road cyclists and mountain bikers.

And research carried out this year shows that excessive levels of exercise also cause an increase in poor quality sperm which is bad news for their fertility. It seems to be the case that excessive levels of exercise, for example, triathlons can put undue stresses on the body which affects fertility - in both sexes.

So if you and your partner are keen triathletes and are hoping to start a family then consider reducing your training schedule.

Male Infertility Guide Index:

• What are the causes of infertility in men?
• I do a lot of mountain biking can this affect my fertility?
• Is age an issue with male fertility?
• What causes a low sperm count?
• Are there any symptoms of male infertility?

• What is Varicocele?
• Can a reverse vasectomy help me to become fertile?
• What is Retrograde Ejaculation?
• What sperm disorders cause infertility?
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