Cycling is not a major concern for fertility doctors, according to Professor Colin Duncan, a fertility expert at the University of Edinburgh. He states that for women, cycling is only likely to affect fertility when undertaken at extreme levels, such as the training regimes of elite athletes.
Prof Duncan explains that extensive physical activity can reduce body fat, which may lead to ovaries switching off. This can result in elite athletes stopping their periods and experiencing reduced fertility.
For men, prolonged periods on a bicycle saddle can increase the temperature around the testicles, potentially affecting sperm production. However, Prof Duncan notes that for most men, this is not a concern as testicles produce more sperm than required for fertility. He adds that extreme cycling might slightly alter sperm count, but this impact is more likely to be relevant for men with an already borderline sperm count.
When assessing sperm samples, Prof Duncan considers lifestyle factors. He advises that if abnormalities are found, he discusses lifestyle changes, suggesting moderation of activities done to excess, such as smoking, drinking, or using saunas.