Urogenital and Sexual Complaints in Female Club Cyclists-A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Cycling has gained increased popularity among women, but in contrast to men, literature on urogenital overuse injuries and sexual dysfunctions is scarce. Aim: To determine the prevalence and duration of urogenital overuse injuries and sexual dysfunctions in female cyclists of the largest female cycling association in The Netherlands. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was sent to 350 members of the largest female Dutch cycling association and 350 female members of a Dutch athletics association (runners). Main Outcome Measures: The prevalence and duration of urogenital overuse injuries and sexual complaints were assessed using predefined international definitions. Results: Questionnaire results of 114 cyclists (32.6%) and 33 runners (9.4%) were analyzed. After at least 2 hours of cycling, dysuria, stranguria, genital numbness, and vulvar discomfort were present in 8.8%, 22.2%, 34.9%, and 40.0%, respectively (maximum duration 48 hours). These complaints are not present in the controls (P