Technically, it is possible for biking to lead to the development of erectile dysfunction. In order to fully understand the reasoning that biking can lead to the development of erectile dysfunction, it is important to understand the anatomy and physiology for erection development.

The Perineum

Anatomically, the perineum is a surface in both males and females located between the coccyx and the pubic symphysis. Put simply, it is the area generally defined as between the legs and inferior to the pelvic diaphragm.

The perineum is the location for arteries and nerves that supply the penis with blood flow and feeling. The perineum is the surface that bikers tend to put the most pressure which can cause an overall decrease in blood flow to the penis by the compression of arteries, and an overall decrease in feeling due to the compression of nerves. Studies have also shown that biking can cause penile and groin numbness, in addition to problems with urination.

Anatomy of an Erection

Put simply, an erection is mainly caused by the presence of two spongy tissue structures known as the corpora cavernosa. The corpora cavernosa are paired tubular structures within the penis that contain many arteries, nerves, smooth muscle, and empty spaces. The arteries of the corpora cavernosa are supplied blood from the arteries that are located in the perineum.

When excitement or stimulation occurs, the arteries of the corpora cavernosa dilate and the smooth muscle relaxes, causing an influx of blood and increasing overall pressure. This increase in overall pressure is cause for the maintenance of the erection, as veins are blocked, effectively slowing blood flow away from the penis.

Biking: Find the Right Seat

Many experts agree that finding the correct type of bike seat can decrease the overall risk for the development of erectile dysfunction. Studies have clearly linked bike seats with prevalent “noses” as the main cause for the development of erectile dysfunction. This is due to the fact that it is the nose of the bike seat that is responsible for the creation of pressure on the area of the perineum. When this pressure is created, overall blood flow is restricted due to the constriction of arteries supplying blood to the penis. This pressure is also cause for the restriction of feeling due to the constriction of nerves.

Benefits of Biking

Biking also has many associated benefits in addition to the sometimes troublesome development of erectile dysfunction. It should be noted that symptoms of erectile dysfunction were most common in men that biked over three hours per week. Biking is one form of cardiovascular exercise, improving overall health in addition to burning many calories. Biking can be a great addition to any work out routine, as long as certain cautions are taken, particularly finding the right bike seat for you.

As with all medical conditions, the causes and treatment options should be discussed with your physician. Erectile dysfunction is treatable by a variety of methods, but it is up to you to first educate yourself as to the causes and treatment options to find the best method for correction.

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Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/erectile-dysfunction/DS00162/DSECTION=1
http://men.webmd.com/features/biking-and-erectile-dysfunction-a-real-risk