Theres no question that acyclinghabiteither the indoor or outdoor varietyis a great way to stay fit.
Its not exactly the most inspiring side effect of acardio workout.
The pudendal nerve is the main nerve in our pelvic area.
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It gives feeling to the female genitalia and perineum (the area between the anus and vulva).
The nerve runs along bone.
If theres pressure applied in the area, it can impact the nerve.
Some pressure is good and pleasurable, but too much pressure can cause the nerve to become compressed.
Chronic compression over time can, in rare cases, cause actual damage.
The nerve can become pinched (called pudendal nerve entrapment) and result inneuralgia (nerve pain).
Some women also get this nerve damage as a result of childbirth.
It can even manifest years later, Elkwood adds.
The pressure from constant sitting in a somewhat awkward position can cause numbness.
The more likely problem?
Using an ointment or skin lubricant like Vaseline, Body Glide or Aquaphor can alleviate this.
In addition, you should time your cycling classes around yourwax and shave sessions.
Its probably not great to do a cycling class minutes after getting aBrazilian wax," says Knopman.
Most cycling classes where you move off the seat, this doesnt happen.
But its possible, which is why correct cycling form is important.
For most riders, over time your bottom becomes used to the seat and cycling.
That initial discomfort disappears, Knopman explains.
But setting up your bike correctly and riding with proper form is key, too.
As you pedal, ensure that your knee doesn’t fly past your toes on the downstroke.
Your knee should stay nicely stacked on top of the ankle as you drop down.
Keeping a flat back and tight belly will always keep you stable, Shelton instructs.
Also, verify the resistance is high enough to minimize bouncing.
Speaking of bouncing: Elkwood cautions against doing jumps.
There are other elements impacting our vaginal health, such as what we are wearing.
Masterson warns that sweat and tight clothing creates the perfect environment foryeast.
