Association of Bicycle-Related Genital Numbness and Female Sexual Dysfunction: Results From a Large, Multinational, Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Cycling can lead to microtrauma due to increased perineal pressure, possibly contributing to genital numbness and sexual dysfunction in female cyclists. Aim: We aim to explore the associations between cycling characteristics, female genital numbness, and female sexual dysfunction. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study on female cyclists and sexual wellness. Participants were recruited through Facebook (R) advertisements and online outreach at athletic clubs. Participants were asked about their cycling characteristics, genital numbness, and female sexual function using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Univariate and multivariable linear and logistic regression were used to assess risk factors for genital numbness and the association between genital numbness and the FSFI. Outcome Measures: The outcome measures were cycling characteristics, questions regarding numbness (intensity, duration, location), and the FSFI score. Results: Eight-hundred and seventy-five women were included in the study. Total lifetime miles cycled, biking duration, frequency, distance, speed, and biking surface were not significantly associated with genital numbness. Higher handlebar height was associated with less numbness. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in the cohort was 52%. Genital numbness was significantly associated with sexual dysfunction (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.05 - 1.95). Sub-group analysis for location of numbness demonstrated significant increase in risk for sexual dysfunction in cyclists who described numbness around the perineum (OR: 2.72, 95% CI: 1.05 - 7.02) and the vulva (OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.13 - 2.13). There was also a significant increase in the risk of sexual dysfunction in cyclists who reported a longer duration of numbness (OR: 6.58, 95% CI: 2.27 - 19.07). Conclusions: Genital numbness is common in women who cycle and is associated with increased risk of FSD and lower average sexual response scores on FSFI. Copyright (C) 2021, International Society of Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc.