Cycling and Male Fertility

Does riding a bike make a man infertile? Or is this saying one of those urban myths based very loosely on one or two studies completed 50 or more years ago? Read more to find out.

A Look at Male Infertility Statistics

According to the American Pregnancy Association, male infertility is the cause of approximately 30 percent or more of infertility cases in the United States. Statistics from the UK suggest that men in the UK are the cause of at least 25 percent of infertility cases in England. Infertility in men is mostly directly connected to sperm quality and sperm count although infertility can occasionally be caused by an inability to get an erection.

Scientific Proof

There have not been extensive studies done regarding the connection between cycling and sperm quality and production. But the studies that have been done, like the 2009 study by Spain's University of Cordoba Medical School, have scientifically proven that sperm quality significantly and quickly drops with intense cycling. Participants in the study cycled more than 186 miles a week. Their semen and sperm was then analyzed. What scientists discovered was that the men overall produced less than ten percent healthy sperm. Some had counts as low as four percent. The average male with no fertility problems usually produces 15 to 20 percent normal-looking sperm.

If there is damage to the testicles and scrotum from cycling, this damage tends to be irreversible. Assisted reproduction like IVF may be the only solution to a successful pregnancy.

How Cycling Causes Sperm Damage

Sperm is susceptible to damage if it becomes overheated. Cycling pants tend to be tight causing friction between the saddle and a man's body. This can cause overheating of the scrotum and this heat can damage sperm production. Cycling can also injure sperm. Bike riding involves jolting and jostling in the saddle. This pressure can injure any sperm that have been produced. It can also halt normal sperm production.

Padded cycling shorts can provide cushioning and reduce scrotal damage. If you cycle often, short breaks to let your body cool down will also help with sperm counts and quality. And while off-roading can be more fun, it causes more bumps which can damage your testicles. Try to stay on smooth streets.

When to Be Concerned

The men in the Spanish study were professional athletes. The average man cycling to and from work likely won't compromise his fertility. Still, if you're trying to get pregnant, most doctors will suggest the man stop cycling until after conception and after the pregnancy is well established.