Can tucking damage your perineum ?

[sandcastle]

Reading an article (http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2008/jul/26/healthandwellbeing4) in the Guardian: "Most reports, however, refer to impotence - because the saddle's pressure on the perineum damages the nerves that lead to erection - rather than to low sperm count." on cycling with a racing saddle, made me wonder if impotence can be caused.

Anybody heard of any helpful research or specialist comment?

Sandra

[TommiTN]

I've been tucking for years and for extended periods; all the plumbing works just fine, thank you very much! As for reduced sperm count, yes, that is possible because sperm need to be maintained within a fairly narrow temperature range to be viable. This is why your family jewels draw up close to your groin when you get in cold water, and why they hang down when they get warm; temperature regulation.

[CharleneT]

Well.... you do not tuck anywhere near the perinium, so no worries there. As for bicycling and potential damage, it is possible from a bad saddle or badly adjusted one. You'll know there is a problem before the damage I think - you'll go numb. There are some former pro riders here who could give you much better info than I. Maybe they'll chime in.

Tucking does move your testicles inside, and therefore the sperm is warmer (while you are tucked). This can lead to lower sperm counts. You would have to do it a lot though. Plus, if you stopped, after a while the new sperm would be fine. I do not think there would be any long term problem.

[Nicki B]

Well.... you do not tuck anywhere near the perinium, so no worries there.

??? The perineum is that bit of your anatomy between the anus and your marriage tackle..

As long as you're not repeatedly bouncing up and down on it with your full weight (like you do on a bicycle), I'd have thought you shouldn't have a problem? :)

[Carroll]

Low sperm count? HA!, that highway was closed 5 years ago


In human anatomy, the perineum is generally defined as the surface region in both males and females between the pubic symphysis and the coccyx. The perineum is the region of the body inferior to the pelvic diaphragm and between the legs.

A diamond-shaped area on the inferior surface of the trunk which includes the anus and, in females, the vagina[1]. Its definition varies: it can refer to only the superficial structures in this region, or it can be used to include both superficial and deep structures.

The perineum corresponds to the outlet of the pelvis.

[Jilmac]

I am no longer concerned with my sperm count because I was fixed 27 years ago. However I was tucking before I was fixed and never experienced a problem. I have also ridden my bike tucked (the sensation is indescribable) and have never had a problem. The only thing I'm experiencing now is slow flow which I doubt is the result of tucking. Luv and :hugs: Jill

[sandcastle]

Your comments are greatly reassuring. :)

Thank you all,
Sandra.