an road cycling damage your prostate?
Many men ask us about the possible relationship between cycling and urological pathologies such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (benign growth of the prostate) or erectile dysfunction.
Prostate Problems and Cycling
The journal “Prostate Cancer Prostatic Disease” has published an article in which urologists studied the relationship between cyclists and their PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) levels. PSA is the prostate-specific marker that most men get from the age of 50 onwards when they see a urologist. Only one study found an elevation of this prostate marker in relation to cycling, unlike five studies that did not observe differences. Urologists state that at the present time there is no evidence that cycling increases PSA levels in men.
Another frequently asked question is whether cycling can cause the growth of the prostate gland. There is no data that relates it since the prostate grows inexorably in all men due to age and testosterone. In patients with prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate), cycling is not recommended to avoid pelvic congestion and discomfort on the pelvic floor.
Another study conducted by doctors at the University of Leuven on the possible relationship between cycling and erectile dysfunction has not found any evidence of this possible connection.
There is currently no evidence that cycling can cause prostate growth or erectile dysfunction. Physical exercise is a key factor for better sexual health.
The bicycle and prostate relationship lies in the weight of the body falls on the saddle, compressing the perineal area located in the lower part of the pelvis, this area is between the anus and the testicles, members that have many nerves that are responsible for giving sensitivity to the perineum. and to the genital area. In this area are also the veins that allow the proper functioning of the body’s organs.
The most important member of this area is the prostate, which is next to the neck of the bladder and the urethra, this member is in charge of semen production and is located in the center, so the pressure generated when doing this sport It can cause injuries such as erectile dysfunction, prostate and compression-type problems.
Recommendations to take care of the prostate
The area of the prostate is the most sensitive, due to this the practice of this sport can generate diseases such as prostatitis, which consists of inflammation of the prostate, prostate cancer and benign hyperplasia, which is the growth of the prostate. It is advisable to accompany the practice of this sport with a regular visit to the Urologist, to keep track and avoid long-term conditions that could prevent you from continuing to practice it.
Not all cyclists develop these conditions, but they should have a constant check-up, use recommended sports clothing such as underwear, an ergonomic saddle and select a time with pleasant weather in a suitable place.
Factors to consider when riding a bike
But perhaps the most important factor is knowing how to choose the right saddle, for both men and women. It is a difficult and complex task, since its function is to hold the weight of the body and provide comfort when walking. The key is knowing how to choose its width and shape. This must allow to support the pelvic bones called ischia and have an opening in the central part to reduce the pressure caused by the body during the execution.
To avoid discomfort or pain at the end of the practice, it is recommended that the saddle has a suitable location in terms of height, it must be according to the person because if it is used very high it can generate cervical problems in the perineal area, it is necessary to take this into account. so you can stay comfortable and enjoy the ride.
The inclination used during practice is a detail that few take into account, but if the right one is used it can generate better results. The back should be slightly bent, the arms straight to prevent the force of our own body from bending the arms or rounding the back, and the head should always be straight.
With the passage of time, constant practice and the weight of our body, the saddle tends to lose its position, so we must adjust it so that it always has the right one. The saddle tends to lean forward a little, affecting our posture and causing pain in the body at the end of the practice due to the use of a bad position.
Bicycle and prostate relationship
The European Urology indicates that cycling can become a cause of loss of sensitivity in the perineal area, priapism, erectile dysfunction, hematuria and increased levels of PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) data taken in athletes with an average of 400 km per week.
To understand the relationship between cycling and the prostate, it is recommended that the practice of this sport be accompanied by controls on the PSA values to see possible irregularities.
Results of a University College London study suggest a relationship between cycling and an increased risk of developing prostate cancer, especially in those who spend more than 8.5 hours a week and men who have reached the age of 50. This group increased six times compared to the rest of the participants because the continuous pressure of the seat can slightly injure the prostate and cause inflammation, which raises PSA levels considered a sign of prostate cancer.
It is important that these care and tests are carried out under the supervision of a Urologist. Why should I visit the Urologist? What are you going to do to me? These are some questions that every man asks himself to avoid going to the specialist, but beyond the discomfort that the visit implies, this type of check-up is vital, since prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in the world. in men.
Post time: Sep-23-2022