• Home
  • SUBSCRIBE!
  • Garmin Edge Bike Computers
    • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
      • Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus: What’s the Difference?
      • ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED: 130 Plus vs Explore vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus
      • Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530 Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, Reviews and Videos
      • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830: What’s the Difference?
      • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030. What’s the Difference?
      • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs. 130 Plus – Premium vs. Budget Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge 830 vs 820: What’s the Difference?
    • Which is the Best Garmin Edge Bike Computer?
      • Which Garmin Edge Bike Computer has the Longest Battery Life?
      • Which Garmin Edge Bike Computer is Best for Mountain Biking?
    • Are Garmin Edge Bike Computers Worth It?
    • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
      • Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt: Which is Better?
      • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
    • 9 Great Upgrades to the Garmin Edge 530
    • 9 New Features in the Garmin Edge 830
    • The New Garmin Enduro Smart Watch – a Good Choice for Cyclists?
  • About
    • Start Here!
    • Contact Us
  • Product Reviews
    • 7 Great Budget Bikes You Can Buy on Amazon in 2023
    • 7 of the Best Budget E-bikes under $1000 for 2023
    • Bike Computer Reviews
      • 7 of the Best Budget Bike Computers for 2023
      • All Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared: Edge 130 Plus vs Explore 2 vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus vs 1040
      • Best Cheap Bike Computers Under $65 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
      • Best Bike Computers – Includes CatEye, Garmin, and Wireless Bike Computers
      • Quick Links to our Best Posts about Bike Computers
    • Cycling Gear Reviews
      • How to Choose the Best Cycling Balaclava
        • 7 of the Best Cycling Balaclavas to Keep Your Head Warm this Winter
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Jackets for Men and Women
        • 7 of the Best Women’s Cycling Jackets – Waterproof and Windproof
        • The Three Different Kinds of Cycling Jackets
        • Showers Pass Elite 2.1 Waterproof Cycling Jacket Review
        • Best Cheap Cycling Jackets under $100
        • Best Windproof Cycling Jackets
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Pants for Men and Women
        • Showers Pass Rogue Cycling Pants – Review by Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist
        • 3 Regular-Looking Pants that Work Well as Cycling Pants
      • Best Waterproof Cycling Gear for Men and Women
      • 7 of the Best Cycling Jerseys
        • Two of the Best Women’s Cycling Jerseys: Pearl Izumi and Sugoi
      • 7 of the Best Dog Bike Baskets and Dog Carriers
      • Adidas Cycling Glasses – Review after Eight Years of Use
      • The New Garmin Enduro Smart Watch – Is it a Good Choice for Cyclists?
    • Garmin Edge and Wahoo Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared: Versus Posts!
        • ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED: 130 Plus vs Explore vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus
      • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
        • Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt vs. Garmin Edge 130 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, with Videos
        • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
      • Garmin Varia Vision and Varia Rear Light Radar
      • How to Upload Your Bike Rides to Strava While Garmin Connect is Down
    • Bike Pannier Reviews
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers
      • Review of the Two Wheel Gear Convertible Pannier/Backpack
      • Best Waterproof Bike Panniers for Touring and Commuting: Ortlieb Bike Panniers
      • Two Wheel Gear Classic 3.0 Garment Pannier for Bike Commuters – Review by Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist
      • Best Commuter/Bike Touring Panniers: Two Wheel Gear Classic 3.0 Garment Pannier Review
    • Bike Light Reviews
      • Complete Guide to Bike Lights
        • Best Budget Bright Bike Headlight – Lumintrail Review
        • Best Bike Light under $40 – Serfas Thunderbolt Tail Light Review
        • 7 of the Best Bike Lights for Night Riding and Commuting in 2023
        • Reelight Rl721 Bike Lights Review – Lights that are ALWAYS on
        • How to Choose the Best Bike Light
      • When to Use Flashing Bike Lights
      • Quick Links to Our Best Posts about Bike Lights
    • Bike Saddle Reviews
      • 9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles for 2023
      • How to Choose the Right Bike Saddle
      • Zacro Gel Seat Cover – a Budget Solution for Saddle Discomfort
    • Headphone Reviews
      • Best Headphones for Safe Cycling
      • Aftershokz XTrainerZ Headphones – Open-Ear, Bone Conduction, Safe Headphones for Cycling AND Swimming
      • Review – AfterShokz Trekz Cordless Open Ear Bone Conduction Headphones for Safe Cycling
      • Jaybird Tarah Wireless Headphones Review
    • 7 Reasons to Use a Power Meter on Your Bike
  • Bike Computer Reviews
    • Best Cheap Bike Computers Under $65 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
    • Garmin Edge Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
        • ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED: 130 Plus vs Explore vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus
        • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030. What’s the Difference?
      • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
        • Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
        • Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt vs Garmin Edge 130 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, with Videos
        • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
        • Garmin Edge 520 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT
    • 7 of the Best Budget Bike Computers for 2023
    • Quick Links to our Best Posts about Bike Computers
    • Best Bike Computers – Includes CatEye, Garmin, and Wireless Bike Computers
    • 9 Great Upgrades to the Garmin Edge 530 – Garmin’s Game-Changing GPS Bike Computer
  • Health Benefits
    • Cycling Weight Loss
      • A Guide for Fat Cyclists
      • How Cycling Can Help You to Lose Weight
      • The Top 10 Ride Your Way Lean Eating Rules, for Effective Weight Loss
      • 7 Steps to Lose Weight Cycling
      • How Many Calories Do You Burn Cycling?
      • How Many Calories Can You Burn Riding an Ebike?
      • Top 10 Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
      • Our Best Lose Weight with Cycling Posts
      • Intermittent Fasting, Cycling, HIIT, and Weight Loss
    • Cycling and Aging
      • Science Shows HIIT on a Bike is the Best Exercise to Fight Aging – And We Show You How to Do it!
      • 5 Great Reasons to Take Up Cycling During Retirement
      • Science Says Exercise is a Miracle Cure and Protects You from Diseases
      • Science Proves Cycling Can Help You to Stay Strong as You Age
      • Science Shows that Cycling Really Does Fight Aging
      • 7 Tips to Help You Keep Mountain Biking after Age 40
      • Case Studies: Three Seniors who Regained their Health with E-Bikes
    • Cycling Knee Pain
      • 5 Doctor’s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery
      • Video: 3 Exercises for Cycling Knee Pain
      • 7 Ways to Prevent Cycling Knee Pain
      • How to Cure Cycling Knee Pain with a Miraculous, Cheap Cure
    • Cycling and Strength
      • Top 7 Strength Building Exercises for Cyclists
      • 5 Great Strength Exercises for Cyclists
      • Science Says Cycling Can Help You to Stay Strong as You Age
      • How Strength Training Can Boost Your Cycling Speed and Quality of Life
    • Cycling and Sleep
      • How Cycling Helps You to Sleep Better and Get Healthier
      • One in Three Cyclists Experience Reduced Stress Levels
      • Why Cycling May Be the Sleep Aid You Need
      • How I Became a Bike Commuter and Shed Stress Immediately
    • Cycling and Brain Health
      • Science Shows Five Ways that Cycling Boosts Your Brain Function
      • Research shows that cycling makes your brain grow
    • Kids biking
      • 7 Easy Steps to Teach a Child to Ride a Bike
      • 7 of the Best Baby and Child Bike Seats to Keep Your Child Safe – Reviews and Videos
      • 7 Tips for Parents to Keep your Kids Safe on their Bikes
      • How to Transport Kids on Bikes (Video and Infographic)
      • Babies and Bikes: How to Get Kids Active from the Start
      • How to Encourage Kids to Ride Bikes
        • How to Help your Kids Bike to School
A Blog for Average People who LOVE to ride bikes!

Average Joe Cyclist

A Blog for Average People who LOVE to ride bikes!

  • Cycling Training Plans
    • Our Most Successful Cycling Training Plans
    • How to Get Bike Fit: Complete Bike Training Plan
    • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 1
    • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 2 – Interval Training
    • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 3 – Preparing for Your First Race
    • 7 Reasons to do High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on Your Bike – and How to Do It
    • Top 7 Strength Building Exercises for Cyclists
    • Science Shows HIIT on a Bike is the Best Exercise to Fight Aging – And We Show You How to Do it!
    • Workouts and Stretching for Cyclists
      • Complete Guide to Stretching for Cyclists
      • Stop Doing Crunches! 10 Minute Complete Core Workout for Cyclists
      • Updated Video: 3 Hip Stretches to Cure Cycling Hip Pain
      • 5 Benefits of Cross Training for Cyclists
    • How to Protect Your Testosterone Levels from Over-Training
    • Research shows Amazing Benefits of Sprint Intervals in Cycling
  • Indoor Cycling Training
    • 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers
    • 5 of the Best Smart Indoor Trainers for Effective Indoor Training
    • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
    • Guide to Smart Turbo Indoor Trainers
    • How to Get Started with Stationary Biking: A Guide to Stationary Bikes
  • Cycling with Dogs
    • 7 of the Best Dog Bike Baskets and Dog Carriers
    • How to Train Your Dog to Safely Run Next to You When You Are Cycling
    • Complete Guide to Taking Your Dog on Bike Rides in a Bike Basket
    • 6 Steps to Gently Train Your Dog to Go On Bike Rides With You
  • Lose Weight!
    • Cycling and Weight Loss
      • 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers for 2023
      • 5 Quick and Easy Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
    • Our Best Lose Weight with Cycling Posts
    • Cycling Nutrition
      • Best Matcha Tea for Cyclists: My Matcha Life
        • How to Make Matcha Tea
      • How Protein Helps your Post Bike Ride Recovery
      • 5 Best Protein Supplements for Exercise Recovery and Health
    • Cycling Training Plans
      • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
      • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner’s Bike Training Plan
    • Cycling and Health
  • Tips & How-Tos
    • How to Prevent & Cure Cycling Knee Pain
      • Video: 3 Exercises for Cycling Knee Pain
      • 5 Doctor’s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery
    • How to Change Gears on a Bike – Beginner’s Guide
    • Bike maintenance
      • How to Fix a Flat Bike Tire
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
    • Top 10 Tips to Keep your Bike from being Stolen
    • Smart Phone vs a Bike Computer for Recording Bike Rides – Which is Better?
    • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
    • Do You Need a Cycling Jersey?
    • Complete Guide to How to Buy and Sell Bikes on Craigslist
      • How to Buy Used Bikes on Craigslist (and Other Online Marketplaces)
    • How to Understand Bike Terminology
    • 5 Things You Need to Know about Hydration for Cyclists
      • Hydration for Cycling – How Much Fluid do You Need?
  • Bike Commuting
    • Bike Commuting Tips
      • Top 10 Tips on How to Avoid a Sore Butt from Cycling
      • How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues
      • How to Choose the Best Bike Light
      • The 7 Biggest Mistakes People Make When They Try to Start Bike Commuting
      • 7 Tips for Going Car-Free
      • Can Cycling Cause Penis Numbness, Erectile Dysfunction, and Prostate Cancer?
      • Best Bike Light under $40 – Serfas Thunderbolt Tail Light Review
      • 5 Ways to Stay Visible in Traffic When Cycling
      • The 7 Biggest Mistakes People Make When They Try to Start Bike Commuting
      • 7 Helpful Tips for New Bike Commuters – Don’t Start Bike Commuting Until You Read This!
    • Winter Cycling
      • Safe Winter Cycling – How to Cycle Safely in the Winter
      • How to Dress for Winter Cycling – Cycling Clothes that will Keep You Warm and Dry
      • Our Top Tips to Keep You Warm and Dry for Fall and Winter Cycling
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
      • Quick Links to Our Best Posts about Cold Weather Cycling
    • Safety for Cyclists
      • Top 10 Tips to Not Get Hit by a Car on Your Bike
      • When to Use Flashing Bike Lights
      • 7 of the Best Bike Lights for Night Riding and Commuting
      • Aftershokz XTrainerZ Headphones – Open-Ear, Bone Conduction, Safe Headphones for Cycling AND Swimming
      • Best Budget Bright Bike Headlight – Lumintrail Review
    • Benefits of Being a Bike Commuter
      • Survey Shows London Bike Commuters are Happier and More Productive
      • What Is the Function of Myelin in the Body?
      • Research shows that cycling makes your brain grow
    • Bike Maintenance
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
      • How To Clean Your Bike Chain the Easy Way
      • How to Fix a Flat Bike Tire
      • Inspirational Video: How to Fix a Bike Flat – with No Hands
    • Cycling Infrastructure
      • 3 Reasons Why We Need Separated Bike Lanes
      • Research reveals a surprising benefit of separated bike lanes
      • Montreal Cycling, Part 3: Separated Bike Lanes – What Other Cities can Learn from Montreal
      • Cycling and the Post-Covid Transformation
You are here: Home / Cycling Tips and How-Tos / How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues

May 4, 2020 by Maggie

Pin
Share
Tweet

This post is about the problems that women cyclists sometimes experience with our “lady parts,” due to saddle soreness. It includes an explanation of what causes the saddle soreness problems; descriptions of the various problems; advice on how to treat them and when to seek medical help; and advice on how to avoid all of these problems in the first place. The issues I have focused on are vaginitis (yeast infections); urinary tract infections; saddle soreness (includes chafing, folliculitis, saddle sores, and boils); genital numbness; and labial hypertrophy (swollen labia).

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Problems with Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues. Women cyclists who spend many hours on their bikes are the most likely to experience saddle soreness
Women cyclists who spend many hours on their bikes are the most likely to experience saddle soreness. Photo by the IS Collective

Problems caused by cycling are not just a problem for men! More attention is given to cycling-related conditions suffered by men, rather than women. And we ladies normally suffer things in greater silence than men. Add to that the fact that the cycling media is often male-centric, and it is no wonder that this topic gets so little attention. But it is a common and often serious problem. Of course, pro cyclists are likely to suffer more as they spend so much time cycling, but even the most casual Average Jane Cyclist can experience problems.

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Problems with Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues. Saddle soreness is more common with competitive cyclists, but even Average Jane Cyclists can experience problems
Saddle soreness is more common with competitive cyclists, but even Average Jane Cyclists can experience problems

This is a very in-depth post, and I did a lot of research to write it. For those who want to read even further, I have included a list of my research sources at the end of this post.

Related post:  Check out our in-depth comparison of the best cycling jackets for women.

The Cause of Saddle Soreness Problems

When a female cyclist is on a road bike, her vulva (which is not meant to be weight-bearing) may be bearing up to 40% of her weight. Do that for a few hours, and things can get pretty unhappy down there. Add to that the fact that when you want to put on a burst of speed, you need to lean way forward, and you have a real potential for problems. Much is made of the problems men experience, but men can tuck their parts up front and largely out of harm’s way. Unfortunately, we really have no choice but to sit on ours.

Andy Pruitt, Ed.D., is the founder of the University of Colorado’s Sports Medicine and Performance Center. Dr. Pruitt has served as a medical consultant to numerous World Tour teams and cyclists. He says:

“Women actually have more problems than men, but historically haven’t talked about it as much. Now we have a generation of women cyclists who are not afraid to verbalize their issues. That helps everyone, because the more we understand the issues they’re facing, the better we can address them. No one should suffer in silence.”

Research on Saddle Soreness in Women Cyclists

The first major research on the issue was done in 2006. Dr. Marsha Guess found that competitive women cyclists had a significant increase in numbness and pain, and a significant reduction in genital sensation (compared to female runners). Not only that, but 64% of the women cyclists experienced pain and numbness in the genitals. Even more alarmingly, 10% had suffered injury, including compression of the pudendal nerve, and damage to soft tissue and lymphatic vessels. (See Sources at the end of this post.)

There was some good news – the women cyclists did not experience sexual dysfunction. Dr. Guess concluded:

“There is an association between bicycling and decreased genital sensation in competitive women bicyclists. Negative effects on sexual function and quality of life were not apparent in our young, healthy premenopausal cohort.”

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Problems with Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues. This post aims to keep you smiling in the saddle
This post aims to keep you smiling in the saddle

Saddle Soreness Caused by Cycling (includes Chafing, Folliculitis, and Boils)

Saddle soreness refers to a whole smorgasbord of painful conditions caused by friction between your body and the bike. They are by far the most common problems experienced by women who cycle a lot.

Chafing from Cycling – the Mildest Form of Saddle Soreness

It starts with simple chafing, which most commonly affects the inner thighs. Repetitive movements against a saddle can easily cause chafing. Add to this the bacteria that may be present in the chamois area of cycling shorts, and you have a perfect storm. Chafing is not a serious problem in itself, but it can be very uncomfortable.

Infected Hair Follicles (Folliculitis)

Folliculitis is also caused by chafing. But in this case, the irritation occurs at the base of the hair follicle, and leads to infection. In this age of Brazilian body waxes, infected hair follicles are common. This is because waxing removes a protective layer of hair from the body. If you can, it is better to leave yourself “au natural” in the groin area during your cycling season.

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Problems with Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues. We want you to enjoy your hours in the saddle
We want you to enjoy your hours in the saddle

Boils (Furuncles) as a result of Saddle Soreness

These can also be a result of chafing. However, these can grow and become extremely painful. They often require treatment. More about that below.

Saddle Sores

Raw skin caused by chafing can ulcerate and become infected, escalating to actual saddle sores. These can be excruciating, and may make it impossible to cycle for a while. They usually look like irritated, raised sections of skin. They may also look like pimples – pores filled with bacteria.

How to Treat Chafing, Saddle Sores, Folliculitis, and Boils caused by Saddle Soreness

If you have an infection, use a light layer of antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin. This applies to chafing, saddles sores, folliculitis, and boils.


A product called Boil Ease can ease the pain of boils.


For saddle sores, if you want to keep cycling without pain, try cutting moleskin to fit around the sore, so you can keep pressure off it.


For boils, do not pop them with a needle! Instead, make a warm compress by dipping a cloth into warm water. Then apply it to the boil. This will decrease the pain and start drawing the pus to the surface. After a few sessions of compression (2 to 3 times a day), the boil should burst. At that point, wash it with an antibacterial soap and clean with rubbing alcohol. Finish with Neosporin and a bandage.

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Problems with Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues. When you are cycling, it's great if you can just focus on the fun of it
When you are cycling, it’s great if you can just focus on the fun of it. Photo by the IS Collective

When to See a Doctor for Chafing, Saddles Sores, Folliculitis or Boils

If an infection sets in, you may need an antibiotic prescription. Definitely see a doctor if you start running a fever (especially if you have chills); or you have swollen lymph nodes; or the skin around the infected area turns red or red streaks appear; or the pain becomes severe; or you have a boil that does not drain.

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Saddle Soreness Caused by Cycling (including Chafing, Saddle Sores, Folliculitis, and Boils)

All of these ills start off as chafing, so they are all best targeted by prevention of chafing. Specifically, you need to look at two key things: a good bike fit, and a good saddle. The aim is to avoid repeated friction. You can read more about this below in the section called What Women Cyclists Can Do to Prevent Saddle Soreness Related Problems.

Vaginitis (Vaginal Infections, such as Yeast Infections)

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching, and pain. The cause is usually a change in the normal balance of vaginal bacteria or an infection.”

There can also be burning when you urinate. Most women have had yeast infections at some time. You may be more prone to cycling-induced vaginitis if you are post-menopause or have had a hysterectomy. This is because these can lead to thinner vaginal lining. Women cyclists are at heightened risk due to spending many hours in the bike saddle.

Cycling can cause infections because, as Professor of Gynecology Mary Jane Minken notes:

“Chamois time can be bacteria-multiplying time. Women who bike a lot are sweating inside close-fitting clothing. That can promote the overgrowth of yeast, which thrives in hot moist environments.”

How to Treat Vaginitis

Vaginitis can sometimes be treated by over-the-counter, anti-yeast remedies. Good products such as Monistat can even be purchased online.


And a topical steroid cream can help with the itching. In extreme cases, I have found Cortizone brings almost immediate relief. At worst, you should find that if you apply it before bed, everything is much, much happier by morning!


When to See a Doctor

If a single application of an anti-yeast remedy does not work, see a doctor to get an antifungal to treat it.

Also, see a doctor if you have vaginitis with a particularly unpleasant vaginal odor, discharge, or itching. This is especially true if you recently started to see a new partner, as it may not be the cycling. It may be an STD, such as Trichomoniasis. Also, if the vaginal discomfort is accompanied by a fever, chills or pelvic pain, see a doctor right away.

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Problems with Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues. Despite the problems discussed in this post, most of the time, women cyclists love their time on their bikes
Despite the problems discussed in this post, most of the time, women cyclists love their time on their bikes. Photo by the IS Collective

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Vaginitis

Cleanliness is Key

To prevent vaginitis, cleanliness is your first defense to stop the fungus and bacteria from multiplying.

The chamois in cycling shorts can be a breeding ground for bacteria, so it is important to wash your chamois after every ride, and air dry completely. Some cycling shorts have a removable chamois that can be washed on its own. If you don’t have that, wash the shorts and chamois together.

Also, remove your shorts as soon as possible after every ride. Then, take a shower right away. Don’t use products that can cause or exacerbate irritation, such as scented soaps, harsh soaps, soaps with deodorant or antibacterial action, or bubble bath.

After showering, dry off completely. If necessary, use a blow dryer on low heat to completely dry your parts. This is to make sure that you are completely dry, because bacteria thrive in moisture. If a shower is not possible, then use baby wipes.

It’s best to sleep without underwear, to keep things drier, because yeast thrives in moisture.

Supplements that May Help

Some people believe that yoghurt or probiotics (specifically Lactobacillus acidophilus supplements) may help to prevent vaginitis, by helping to maintain a correct balance in the vagina. However, there is not enough research to definitively prove this. On the other hand, probiotics promote good health in a number of ways, including intestinal health, so there is no harm in trying it. (Source: Web MD)


Vaginitis may also be caused by too much friction on the bike, caused by a poorly fitting bike or saddle. For advice about this, please see the section below called What Women Cyclists Can Do to Prevent Saddle Soreness Related Problems.

Saddle soreness
Yes we can! Photo by the IS Collective

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

These are bacterial infections that impact any part of the urinary system – such as your urethra, bladder, or kidneys. Unfortunately, they are quite common in women who cycle, because bacteria from our chamois can make its way into our bladder.

You are most likely familiar with the symptoms of urinary infections, but in case you are not, they include: burning urination; frequent feeling that you urgently need to urinate, even when you don’t; discolored urine; and generalized pain in the area. You may only have the first one or two of those symptoms, or you may be unlucky enough to have all of them.

How to Treat Urinary Tract Infections

Many women try non-medical treatments for urinary tract infections, including drinking plenty of cranberry juice, and drinking lots of water to flush everything out.

When to Get Medical Help for a Urinary Tract Infection

If home treatments do not help and the condition persists for longer than a day, or becomes very uncomfortable, go to a doctor. This condition can get very painful very quickly. A prescription medication, usually an antibiotic, will clear it up quickly.

Also, if you are having a lot of pain, ask your doctor about a prescription for the pain. There are prescription medications that specifically aim to relieve pain in the urethra. I have found that unless you ask for this, doctors don’t subscribe it. If you do ask for it, it seems their memory is jogged and they will prescribe it. I guess they think that the antibiotics will sort it out in a day or two, so it’s not necessary. Based on personal experience, 24 to 36 hours of a UTI is 24 to 36 hours of pain I do not want!

Some doctors insist on doing a test on your urine, but really, you know when you have a urinary tract infection. Unfortunately, it is impossible not to notice. My only aim in this situation is to start treatment as soon as possible.

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Urinary Tract Infections

Cleanliness

As with vaginitis, cleanliness is your first defense against urinary tract infections related to cycling. And the usual advice you have probably heard already applies: such as wiping yourself clean from front to back. Also, drinking lots of water helps to keep everything well flushed.

And as with vaginitis, getting out of your shorts immediately after cycling is important. And then immediately showering, followed by drying off completely. And laundering your shorts and chamois.

Cranberry Juice

There is some research that suggests that regularly drinking cranberry juice may help you to have less frequent infections (Hisano et al., see list of sources at the end of this post). Cranberry juice has a chemical called A-type proanthocyanidins. This is thought to protect against bacteria in the bladder. Of course, it must be a 100% pure cranberry juice, with no added sugar or anything else.


However, all of this might not stop you from getting a urinary tract infection caused by friction and irritation when cycling. To reduce that possibility, please see the section below called What Women Cyclists Can Do to Prevent Saddle Soreness Related Problems.

Saddle soreness
Don’t let saddle soreness stop you from achieving those triumphant moments on your bike! Photo by the IS Collective

Genital Numbness

Researcher Dr. Marsha Guess reported that 64% of a group of female cyclists (who rode at least 10 miles per week) reported genital numbness and tingling within the previous 30 days. Fortunately, she also found no association with sexual dysfunction or quality of life. Still, genital numbness is no fun for anyone. Numbness is caused by compressing nerves.

How to Prevent Cycling-Related Genital Numbness

The primary solution is a good bike fit, so that your weight is properly distributed. Also, it’s important to have the right saddle. For more on those two issues, see below in our section on What Women Cyclists Can Do to Prevent Saddle Soreness Related Problems.

Labial Hypertrophy

Labial hypertrophy (swollen inner and/or outer labia) is a more serious condition. This condition is caused by pressure, which can result in inadequate draining of the lymphatic system. This can even cause long-term swelling of the labia. An early sign is discomfort when you apply pressure to the area. Irritation of the labia is also a sign.

Once you have swelling, the swelling can further impede drainage, so you are in a vicious circle.  In some cases, a surgical intervention is required to ease the pressure.

Even in the absence of long-term damage, this condition can be intensely painful. One woman cyclist, Tess, complained after a 100 mile bike ride about her “lady parts:”

“When I got home, I inspected the damage. It was horrific. Swollen, chafed and raw. I really don’t know how female professional cyclists maintain any kind of love-life. The pain lasted for days, and the thought of getting back on the saddle filled me with dread.”

The labia may also become inflamed, and some women even get infections of the labia. Champion cyclist and doctor, Bridie O’Donnell, says:

“Labial abscesses that needed to be drained or excised were very common during my racing career, and every season, three or four of my teammates would undergo surgery for this.”

When to Seek Medical Help for Swollen Labia

This is not a problem you can treat yourself. Apart from staying off your bike, which you probably don’t want to hear.

So, when should you see a doctor for this condition? In the case of swollen, inflamed, or infected labia, the answer is, as soon as possible.

Phil Burt, head of physiotherapy at British Cycling, says: “If you have seriously swollen labia, it’s quite personal to talk about, but it really needs addressing as soon as possible.”

In the case of inflamed or infected labia, the answer is, see a doctor immediately.

How to Prevent Cycling-Related Labial Hypertrophy

As with most of the problems in this post, the primary solution is a good bike fit, followed by the right saddle. See just below in the next section.

What Women Cyclists Can Do to Prevent Saddle Soreness Related Problems

No. 1: Get Your Bike Fitted Properly

How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Problems with Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues.You are much likelier to be a happy cyclist if you have a well fitted bike
You are much likelier to be a happy cyclist if you have a well fitted bike. Photo by the IS Collective

To reduce pressure points, Joe and I always recommend having your bike fitted to your body. None of us is the ideal model for any bicycle manufacturer, so it is unlikely that a bike will be a perfect fit straight out of the store.

For example, almost everyone has a leg that is slightly shorter than the other. This means that you will be shifting on the saddle at the bottom of each rotation, which can create a chafe point in your groin area. Sometimes all that is needed is a simple shim in your shoe to equalize the length.

If your bike does not fit your body, all kinds of problems can ensue. These include back, knee, hip, and elbow pain. And more to the point here, an ill-fitting bike can cause saddle soreness.

Related Post:

Updated Video: 3 Hip Stretches to Cure Cycling Hip Pain

Professional Bike Fitting

The best solution is a professional bike fitting. The aim is to customize your bike to you so that it fits perfectly. As a result, most of your weight will be on your ischial tuberosities (your sit bones), or on the pubic rami (the pelvic bones, which are further forward). Where your weight rests will depend on your cycling position. The key is not to have too much weight on your soft tissues.

Professional bike fittings are usually expensive. But if you can afford it, they are worth their weight in gold. If you have been experiencing saddle soreness, be sure to tell your bike fitter about it. Yes, it’s a bit embarrassing to talk to a stranger about this, but it’s worth your while. If you have a choice of bike fitters, phone around and try to get one who understands the specifically female issues that you are dealing with.

Electronic Pressure Mappers

The most expensive bike fittings will include measurements done with an electronic pressure mapper. This will expose potential pain areas where your body is in contact with the saddle in minutes. If you can afford this, you could save yourself hours of painful trial and error, trying to find the right saddle and fit it correctly.

Of course, you need to be lucky enough to have this service available in your area, and be able to afford it. Expect to pay hundreds of dollars.

Do It Yourself Bike Fitting

If you cannot afford a professional bike fitting, the book below will help you do your own bike fitting. Bike Fit: Optimise Your Bike Position for High Performance and Injury Avoidance is written by Phil Burt. Burt is the head physiotherapist at British Cycling and Team Sky. Working with the UK Sport’s Research and Innovation team, Burt played a leading role in researching women’s saddle soreness problems, and coming up with solutions. (That’s why he is quoted elsewhere in this post.) So, unlike with many cycling books, women’s needs are specifically addressed in this book, rather than ignored.


When you do your own bike fit, focus on a fit that does not require you to be stretched forward too much. The more you stretch forward, the more your weight shifts from your glutes and your sit bones, onto your vulva. Not desirable! Changes to the stem of the bike can make a huge difference.

No. 2: Get the Right Bike Saddle

Once your bike is perfectly fitted to your body, you need to turn your attention to your saddle. Note that a professional bike fitting will include help with your saddle. But if you don’t have access to that, there is plenty you can do to make sure your saddle is helping the situation, not making it worse.

First, it is important to get the right saddle to suit your body. We have two related posts that can help with that.

Related Posts to Help You Pick Out the Right Saddle and Fit it Properly

Related Post: Top 10 Tips to Avoid a Sore Butt from Cycling

Top 10 Tips on How to Avoid a Sore Butt from Cycling

Related Post: 9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles

9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles, 2021

It can be tough to find the right saddle. One way is to find a bike shop that will let you try saddles out.

Tips on Getting Your Bike Saddle Right

It’s not only about finding the right saddle; it’s also important to mount it correctly. This may be a case of trial and error, because what works for one woman doesn’t necessarily work for all. A couple of things to remember:

  • Women do not necessarily need wider saddles. It is the space between the sit bones, not the width of the hips that governs saddle comfort. Some women swear by women-specific saddles; others do not need them. In fact, some women find that over-wide saddles cause chafing on the inner thighs.
  • More padding does not always translate into more comfort. A lot of people praise Brooks saddles, which are made of hard leather, which conforms to the shape of your body over time. My most comfortable bike saddle ever was the stock saddle on my Giant Avail road bike. It was very narrow and only lightly padded, but I never once had any problems from ride one!
  • Newer saddles that include center cut-outs do not work for everyone. However, many women find them essential. For some women, they relieve the pressure on our most sensitive parts. But for others, they re-distribute too much weight outwards, causing inner thigh chafing and other problems.
  • Try tipping the nose of your saddle down by a degree or two. This may reduce pressure.
  • Standing on the pedals every ten minutes or so could help to keep your blood flowing and reduce pressure.

Try a Forked Saddle

The author of Bike Fit, Phil Burt, recommends that women cyclists try forked saddles made by Adamo. He notes that many Olympic women cyclists swear by their ISM Adamo saddles. He believes that this saddle helps “not solely because of the cutaway but because the two arms of the saddle front flex and rotate with the rider as they pedal.”

This saddle was originally aimed at men, but has been more warmly embraced by women. It was designed for time trialists and triathletes, has a curved nose for a comfortable forward leaning position, and combines foam and gel padding.

This Adamo saddle is very highly rated by many female cyclists and triathletes
This Adamo saddle is very highly rated by many female cyclists and triathletes


Finally, one cure for saddle soreness is to ride more often. Sometimes the first few rides of the season can be painful, but then our bodies adjust. As with most things, it is important to start slowly and build up gradually. This is most definitely not a situation of “No pain, no gain!”

Related Post:

How to Get Bike Fit: Complete Bike Training Plan

No. 3: Get Good Cycling Shorts

Good cycling shorts are essential, even if you only cycle once a week. They will help to minimize the chances of saddle soreness, by providing an anatomically-appropriate layer of protection between your body and the saddle. This protective layer is provided by a chamois that is intended to provide cushioning at points of contact between your body and your bike. It should not have seams to irritate your skin.

Cycling shorts are designed to minimize chafing on long bike rides. They help by wicking moisture away from your skin. And the seams are carefully placed to reduce irritation and chafing. More expensive shorts are usually more skillfully designed to avoid chafing.

If you do multi-day rides, you will need at least two pairs of shorts. This is so that you have a clean and dry pair at all times. These Terry bike shorts are very highly rated, affordable, and come with foam padding. Terry specializes in women’s cycling wear, and makes a range of foam chamois pads. They offer an unconditional warranty on their shorts, which is unusual.

Top 10 Tips to Avoid a Sore Butt when Cycling. Terry specializes in women's cycling wear, and makes a range of foam pads
Terry specializes in women’s cycling wear, and makes a range of foam chamois pads


No. 4: Consider Getting Bib Shorts

Bib shorts are shorts with an attached top. They are usually more expensive than regular shorts, and can make toilet breaks a bit tricky. However, they are worth their weight in gold because they substantially reduce the chance of saddle soreness.

Marijn de Vries, retired pro bike racer from Holland, says:

“A really good, well-fitting pair of bib-shorts will definitely help … the bibs keep the [chamois] pad firmly in place and make them much more comfortable. And you should use plenty of chammy cream.”

I found this pair of bib shorts from Giro that cleverly solve the toilet break problem. They have a women-specific bib short that has a halter top. So, you can quickly take it off! The price is very reasonable for bib shorts too.


No. 5: Use Chamois Cream

Chamois cream will help to keep your chamois from irritating your body. This cream can be applied to the chamois directly, or to your body. It is usually less messy to apply it to the specific parts of your body that are prone to chafing. A good cream will reduce friction between skin-to-skin points or skin-to-fabric points.

Note that there are women-specific chamois creams. These are formulated specifically to maintain a healthy pH balance down under. For example, Chamois Butt’r Her’ is pH balanced for women and contains aloe vera, green tea leaf extract, tea tree oil, shea butter, and lavender oil for their naturally occurring beneficial properties.


No. 6: Try an Anti-Chafing Gel

If you are one of the many women who suffers chafing on the inner thighs, consider an anti-chafing gel. Many triathletes use these. They are especially prone to chafing since they jump on a saddle while still wet from a swim! The gel is designed to provide a silky protective layer.


No. 7: Do Not Wear Underwear!

It is important to not wear underwear with your cycling shorts. If you add a layer of underwear, this will impede your short’s ability to wick moisture away from your body. And it may move around and bunch up, increasing the chance of chafing and saddle sores.

Bottom Line

We may all soon be cycling more, as warmer weather arrives and (hopefully) the Covid-19 virus recedes. If so, make sure to have your bike and saddle, and your shorts and chamois, ready for many hours of cycling without problems. Follow all of o­­­ur tips, especially the ones about scrupulous cleanliness, bike fit, and saddles, and you should be just fine. And if not, get help right away, so you can be back on your bike as soon as possible!

Happy riding!

Sources Used in this Post

Burt, Phil. The Guardian: How Female Cyclists Can Combat Saddle Soreness

Guess, Marsha: Genital Sensation and Sexual Function in Women Bicyclists and Runners

Henry, Thomas. Cycling UK: How to Stop Female Saddle Soreness

Hisano, Marcelo et al. Cranberries and Lower Urinary Tract Infection Prevention. Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil) vol. 67,6 (2012): 661-8. doi:10.6061/clinics/2012(06)18

Liv Cycling: How to Deal with Discomfort “Down There”

Mayo Clinic: Vaginitis

Web MD: Boils.

Web MD: Vaginal Yeast Infections.

Yeager, Selene. Bicycling: How to Prevent Saddle Sores and Common Issues for Women

Related Post (for Your Significant Cycling Other): Does Cycling Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Can Cycling Cause Penis Numbness, Erectile Dysfunction, and Prostate Cancer?

Other Related Posts that Could be Helpful for You

Related Post: Top 10 Tips to Avoid a Sore Butt from Cycling

Related Post: Our Miraculous, Cheap Cure for Cycling Knee Pain

Related Post: 7 Ways to Prevent Cycling Knee Pain

Related Post: The 10 Best Stretches for Cyclists

Related Post: How to Prevent Plantar Fasciitis – PLUS our Easy Cure

Related Post: 9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles

Related Post: How to Choose the Right Bike Saddle

Related Post: Zacro Gel Seat Cover – a Budget Solution for Saddle Discomfort

Check Out Our Most Popular Posts!

  • 7 of the Best Health and Fitness Trackers
  • Best Budget gifts for cyclists
    Best Budget Gifts for Cyclists - Under $15 and Under $30
  • Our Ultimate Gift Guide for Cyclists - 90 Top Picks from Budget to Luxury
  • They look the same - but there are quite a lot of differences!. Garmin edge 1030 plus vs 1040 bike computers
    What's NEW about the Garmin Edge 1040? Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus: What’s the Difference?
  • All Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
    ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED! 130 Plus vs Explore 2 vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus vs 1040
  • 7 of the Best Budget Bike Computers
  • 7 best dog bike baskets
    7 of the Best Carriers to Take Your Dog on Bike Rides
  • This graphic shows you the relative sizes of the 530 (left), 1030 Plus (center), and 830 (right)
    Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus vs 1040 Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison with Reviews and Videos
  • Garmin Edge 530 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
  • 7 of the best indoor bike trainers
    7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers
  • Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs. 1030 Plus. Would a much CHEAPER bike computer work for you?
  • 7 of the Best Cheap Bike Computers under $65 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
  • 7 of the Best Fitness Trackers for Cyclists to Track Bike Rides
  • Best road bike saddles
    9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles for Men and Women - Video-Packed Post
  • 7 of the Best Bike Computers
  • 5 of the Best Smart Indoor Trainers for Effective Indoor Training
  • 9 of the best waterproof cycling jackets for men and women. A great waterproof cycling jacket will keep you dry, and at the same time be breathable, so that you don't overheat your core
    7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Jackets for Men and Women
  • 7 of the best waterproof cycling pants for men and women
    7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Pants for Men and Women
  • The Garmin Edge 830 on Maggie's bike
    Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 vs 1040
  • Get a new bike, and then get outside and have fun!
    7 Great Budget Bikes You Can Buy on Amazon - Cruiser, Mountain, Road and Hybrid
  • Our Most Popular Cycling Fitness Plans
    Our Most Popular Cycling Fitness Plans
  • Waterproof cycling jackets - group of cyclists
    Best Waterproof Cycling Gear - Includes Jackets, Pants, Gloves, and Balaclavas
  • Great bike lights will light up the night for you! Just be sure to get the ones that are right for you
    7 of the Best Bike Lights
  • 7 of the Best Women's Cycling Jackets
  • 7 of the Best Windproof Cycling Jackets - Find a Great Cycling Jacket Now!
  • How to Choose the Safest Headphones for Cycling
  • 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers Compared
  • 7 of the Best Child Bike Seats Compared
  • How to Buy the Best Electric Bike
  • 7 best bike locks
    7 of the Best Bike locks Compared. Find the Best Bike Lock For You!
  • How to Train Your Dog to Safely Run Next to You When You Are Cycling
    How to Train Your Dog to Safely Run Next to You When You Are Cycling

Did you enjoy this post or find it helpful? If so, please support our blog!


average-joe-cyclist-mug-shot copyWe write this blog because we love cycling. But we also need to earn a living, so we REALLY would appreciate if you click through to one of our reputable affiliates for your online shopping. We are proudly affiliated with Amazon, which sells pretty much everything, and has outstanding shipping and return policies. When you buy from our affiliates we make a small commission, and this is the only way we earn any income. Plus, it costs you nothing at all - a real win/win situation!
Shop at Amazon in the USA:
Shop at Amazon in Canada:
Shop at Amazon in the UK:

Related

Pin
Share
Tweet

Filed Under: Cycling Tips and How-Tos

  • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530

Welcome to Average Joe Cyclist!

Welcome to our blog! I’m Joe Goodwill, an average cyclist, and I write a blog for people like me. People who love cycling but will probably never win any races, and who don’t necessarily look good in Lycra! I also write the Electric Bikes Blog and Average Joe's RV Living Blog. To find our most popular posts, check out our Start Here page.

Hi! I'm Maggie Neilson (aka Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist). Joe and I have done a lot of cycling, and we share what we have learned on this blog . We also write reviews of cycling products and trails! Get to know us better HERE.

How our Product Links Work

  • You pay EXACTLY the same price, whether you use our links or go direct to the websites.
  • Earning some commission enables us to spend more time writing posts 🙂
  • THANK YOU to all the good people who have bought through our links. Your support is sincerely appreciated.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Search Average Joe Cyclist!

Trending – Our Top Posts Right Now!

  • The Garmin Edge 830 on Maggie's bike Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 vs 830 vs 530 GPS Bike Computers: Full Review and Comparison of GPS Bike Computers with Navigation
  • They look the same - but there are quite a lot of differences!. Garmin edge 1030 plus vs 1040 bike computers Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus: What’s the Difference?
  • Every body starts somewhere - and with enough determination, you could become one of the smiling competitors in a cycling event How to Get Bike Fit: Complete Bike Training Plan
  • Best Headphones for Safe Cycling
  • 7 of the best budget indoor trainers 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers for 2023
  • Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
  • tips for success lose weight cycling Top 10 Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
  • Winter is a good time to take a break from cycling and do some different kinds of exercise. Click here for our video about the 7 top strength building exercises for cyclists Top 7 Strength Building Exercises for Cyclists
  • 7 of the best bike panniers 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers, 2023 – for Better Bike Commuting and Touring
  • How E-Bikes Can Help Couples to Cycle Together 5 Doctor’s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery

  • Click for our Best Cycling Training Plans!

Copyright © 2023 · Average Joe Cyclist, please contact us for syndication rights.

 

Loading Comments...