11. Cycling has an impact
There’s no question that a cycling habit will help you to stay fit. What you may not know is that it can have an impact on your vulva and vagina. Studies have revealed that women who cycle regularly often suffer from pain, genital numbness, and tingling. It is usually long-distance cyclists who experience this and not those who just do a 45-minute cycling class. However, here are some tips that will help anyone who cycles.
This first measure you can take is to wear the right gear. Padded shorts can help to protect you from that constant friction caused when cycling that can pull and even stretch your labia. Remember that shorts made from breathable material allow sweat to evaporate instead of creating moist, warm conditions for yeast infections to flourish.
The pressure from sitting for a long time in an awkward position may cause temporary numbness but it should not cause long-term damage. If the bike seat is too hard, it can cause discomfort but this usually disappears as you get used to the seat. If it doesn’t, you may need to get a wider, more padded seat. The height of your seat should be in line with your hip when standing alongside your bike.
There is a study that shows that the position of your handlebar can affect the pressure on the pudendal nerve which is the main nerve found in the pelvic area. Your handlebars need be positioned higher than your seat. If you’re constantly leaning forward, your body weight is in the perineum area (between the anus and the vulva) and this can result in compression that may cause tingling and weakness.