Saddle Discomfort and Lady Bits [Archive] - Women's Cycling Discussion Forums

equus123

01-14-2008, 06:56 AM

Hi all,

I don't intend to get graphic with this discussion but I'm curious if anybody shares the same problem that I do....

I've never had a saddle that's been super comfortable but the Terry Butterfly that I've had the past 2+ years has been pretty good for me. I can't use a saddle without a cutout because it causes an immense amount of pain and I've recently come to realize that it's because I have very large labia majora. So the necessity of having a cutout is imperative because of the larger amount of soft tissue than the average female.

What really sucks about it is that the majority of women don't have this problem and it already stinks to be a female cyclist - having to sit on all of our parts! Men are so lucky because they can move it out of the way. I really feel like I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place because there's nothing I can do with *mine* but sit....and deal with it.....

Does anybody else have this? I ask because I thought that I was just odd in that I would never find a comfy saddle but then I came to realize *why*. Forgive me for crossing the line but most days, it looks like I have little balls because they actually do hang down from my body a little. aaaahhhhhh :confused::mad:

mimitabby

01-14-2008, 07:03 AM

hey you SAID you weren't going to get graphic.

The beauty of a saddle like my brooks B67 is you CAN kind of move it all to the side a bit.

alimey

01-14-2008, 07:12 AM

Try the SMP saddle. It has a huge cutout - esp. the high end models. Many women say the women's model is too bulky (at the back & at the nose) - but they seem to like the men's versions.

Another alternative is the Specialized Jett - has a fairly large hole - but more importantly it's a firm saddle so you sit quite high on it (which reduces undercarriage pressure).

Finally I see there is a new model of Selle Italia saddle due for 08 (very nice, white & pink) which seems to have a big hole. I am very happy w/ the Jett - but I might just try the Selle Italia in search of saddle nirvana.

Best of luck w/ your graphic bits!

Pax

01-14-2008, 07:13 AM

Have you tried the Terry Falcon X? The cut out is larger and shaped in such a way that it's very easy on the Lady Bits.

Thorn

01-14-2008, 07:16 AM

If you can tolerate it, try the Selle SMP Strike. It has the widest cutout I ever found. The problem is the wide cutout comes with the cost of a wide nose (and the lady strike supports wide sitbones, too). RoadRaven has a thread on it that is relatively recent.

When I first sat on the saddle, DH made a comment to the fact that the look on my face was pure glee. Woohoo, a saddle meant to just...uh...err...get out of the way where you don't want it.

I've been eyeballing Topeak's Allay line, but it doesn't look like it is really in production yet.

I wonder sometimes how many women who stop cycling do so because they can't find a saddle that works.

velogirl

01-14-2008, 07:43 AM

Equus, you are not unusual. I've met many women over the years who have more soft tissue than "normal." A combination of tight-fitting shorts, minimal chamois, and a cut-out seems to work best for this condition.

And not to drift too far, but I competed at a duathlon in November and a woman who was also racing came up to me (without knowing who I am or that I'm a cycling coach) and told me her life/athletic history, including about her labia-reduction surgery. yes, you read that right. she is an elite endurance athlete (RAAM, FC508, etc) and suffered from so much saddle discomfort that she had some soft tissue removed. the result wasn't flawless and she actually suffered some nerve damage.

BleeckerSt_Girl

01-14-2008, 07:47 AM

A slightly more upright riding position might take some pressure off that intimate area and put more weight back onto your butt and sit bones.

OakLeaf

01-14-2008, 08:02 AM

I'm built like you, too. I'm pretty much okay with my Terry Liberator Ti Race, but it isn't completely ideal for me. I'd be interested to try something different, but I'm not unhappy enough to go through the expense and hassle. Yet.

Lots and lots of Chamois Butt'r, minimalist chamois (spin shorts work better than road shorts for me), and keeping the hair trimmed really short.

Brandy

01-14-2008, 08:49 AM

I'm right there with you anatomically and have had endless saddle issues that I just tolerate and deal with. I just switched to a Terry Butterfly and it's been the best fit for me so far, but I'm still not without some discomfort.

salsabike

01-14-2008, 08:51 AM

Yes, me too. How frustrating.

equus123

01-14-2008, 09:01 AM

Thanks everybody for your fast input! I appreciate it and I'm glad I'm not the only one who has reason for not finding a comfortable saddle.

The one I currently own is starting to show signs of age and the padding is taking it's shape from my weight and use. I'll give all of these saddles a try and let you know which one I go with.

Thanks again!! :)

Bike Goddess

01-14-2008, 09:02 AM

I can get some comfort from my Terry Butterfly saddles. I find that playing with the seat height and angle help to some degree. Just don't do a lot of adjusting- a micro bit at a time. Also handlebars should be lower than your seat by about an inch. This will put more weight on your arms and less on your sit bones.

I, as I am sure you do as well, move around on my seat and stand often. This will help.

Bike fit is essential here. It's all about geometry if you think about it (angles and such will change weight on saddle). If you haven't done that, I'd recommend a fitting.

Good luck!

indysteel

01-14-2008, 10:45 AM

I'll echo what everyone else has said. I prefer a cutout too. I don't know if my girly bits are especially large; I've never done a side-by-side comparison with anyone else!

Bike fit, seat angle, handlebar height, chamoise, etc. make a difference. I prefer the Sugoi RS shorts for whatever reason. The chamois works for me. Also keep in mind that saddles--like just about everything else on a bike--need to be replaced periodically. Saddles with cutouts break down even faster. I only got about a year out of my first Terry, which is consisent with what others have reported. Depending on how much and how hard you ride and the conditions you ride in, you may need to replace the saddle more or less often.

Crankin

01-14-2008, 11:03 AM

I had the same issue a couple of years ago when I got a new bike and the geometry of my position changed. In fact, when I went for my annual exam, the dr. said I had "lesions"she couldn't figure out from what. I knew immediately! I bought the Terry Falcon X also, and I have had no issues since.

equus123

01-15-2008, 06:09 AM

I might think about trying the Falcon X. It's the same company and general size with the saddle I currently use. I would just be afraid going with another company altogether.

I'll update everybody once I get the new saddle. :) Thank you!

SlowButSteady

01-15-2008, 09:59 AM

Mmm. I'm shopping for new shorts now. I'm pretty restricted in what I can buy because I'm an XL (Misses size 16 to 18).

I've been using Terry shorts but current pair "bunches up" to the left of the midline. Last couple of times that I rode--it didn't hurt when I was on the bike, but when I got off, for about 24 to 36 hours afterwards, it burned when I urinated and when I bathed. :mad: It only burns on the left side. Hence, I've been thinking it's the shorts, but the bike is new, saddle is new. I've been in for one fit adjustment and possibly need another, though I'm not able to ride enough right now to tell.

I have chamois buttr but haven't been using it on shorter rides (under an hour-hour and a half). I guess I need to use it regardless of ride length.

My friend who is a a consistent winner/age group placer in marathons, half-marathons and triathlons agrees and we both understand how/why someone would consider something as radical as labia reduction surgery. I imagine this is a "normal" anatomical variation and more common than we ever thought about.

The older we get, the further down all of it hangs!!!

Good luck finding a saddle that's comfy.

RoadRaven

01-15-2008, 10:29 AM

Pax

01-15-2008, 10:52 AM

SbS... there is alot of discussion here about whether women should wear male or female specific shorts.

I am guessing I am a similar size to you (I weigh 99kg and am 5'10") and all my shorts are mens design.

They fit, they don't bunch and they last well. They could be an option if you haven't tried them out.

I wear mens shorts as well and usually buy the inexpensive ones with minimal padding. Seems the more padding there is the more it wads up and rubs.

RoadRaven

01-16-2008, 10:34 AM

Yeah... same as you too Queen - the thicker the pad the more difficult it is for me to get comfy - though I do want a bit of padding :p

For me, getting the seat at the right angle, the right tilt and the right ammount forward/back on the post is perhaps more important now I am understanding more about how I fit on a bike (only taken me nearly two years of racing to finally realise this is what works for me!)

g19

03-19-2008, 12:19 PM

This female issue's are common around the world sadly but true.

The causes can be many things from a adjustment type of thing to accepting that there is 'down under' things that make cycling not very comfortable.

Fortunately there is just recently a thing called 'Reskin' from Bioracer
http://www.reskin.eu/ :)
It's a patch that can be used several times and also on the female zone.

There are some reviews on the internet.

For the moment i don't suffer the mentioned problems (yet), but i do understand that saddle issue's in itself can ruin one's hobby tremendously.

I hope this can reduce the saddle problems a bit.

Good luck and i hope the best of it for all that suffer from this problem.

Calvario301

04-17-2008, 07:40 AM

Has anyone ever tried pointing the nose of the saddle down ever so slightly?

HoosierGiant

04-17-2008, 08:29 AM

Has anyone ever tried pointing the nose of the saddle down ever so slightly?

Done.

And it made a world of difference! I'll not say I'm in love with my saddle, but after having gone through an agonizingly painful, year-long search before I found this one, I'm more than happy to stick with it. Things can't be too bad if there weren't any issues after 160 miles in the saddle for RAIN Ride. :)

rowboatgirl

04-17-2008, 03:49 PM

Another quick question on this topic...

I am a relative newbie riding a Giant with the saddle that came on the bike. I expected (and have been riding with) a certain level of discomfort, though after reading through the forum I think I can definitely improve on how I feel on rides by trying out some different saddles.

My major question is when I am climbing hills I feel like the girlie bits are completely on FIRE!! It can be just horrific. :eek: Honestly it is the worst part of the hill climb for me...it even trumps the burning lungs and any leg fatigue I might have. When I get to the point when it is completely unbearable I stand up to release some of the pressure and heat but obviously I try not to do this too much as it saps my energy...especially in the middle of a long climb. Is this a normal part of climbing or am I just in serious need of a new saddle??

Thanks so much guys and I have been SO EXCITED to find this forum with such amazing women on it!!

HoosierGiant

04-17-2008, 04:50 PM

Another quick question on this topic...

I am a relative newbie riding a Giant with the saddle that came on the bike. I expected (and have been riding with) a certain level of discomfort, though after reading through the forum I think I can definitely improve on how I feel on rides by trying out some different saddles.

My major question is when I am climbing hills I feel like the girlie bits are completely on FIRE!! It can be just horrific. :eek: Honestly it is the worst part of the hill climb for me...it even trumps the burning lungs and any leg fatigue I might have. When I get to the point when it is completely unbearable I stand up to release some of the pressure and heat but obviously I try not to do this too much as it saps my energy...especially in the middle of a long climb. Is this a normal part of climbing or am I just in serious need of a new saddle??

OUCH!! I vote for starting the saddle search ASAP!

What Giant are you riding, and what saddle is on it? Been there, done that with my Giant -- wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy.

KnottedYet

04-17-2008, 06:40 PM

It really shouldn't hurt.

It is *not* a normal part of climbing.

Sounds like time to begin the search for the saddle of your dreams.

Start by measuring your sit bones to get an idea of minimum saddle width (there's a thread about that somewhere in "Favorite Saddles") and reading the specs on various saddles.

You can also do the "do I need a cut-out" test. (sit on the front of a hard wooden chair in your underwear. keeping your back straight, hinge forward at your hips until you can rest your elbows on your knees. if your girly bits feel smooshed and uncomfortable in this position, you might want to investigate cut-out saddles)

Saddle shape preference ("T" vs. "pear") is a very individual thing, and I don't know of any short-cuts to discovering the shape you need. Try a saddle, note the chafing pattern (if any) and change accordingly.

Sheldon Brown has a spiffy page of saddle info: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/saddles.html

corey

04-17-2008, 07:38 PM

I'm right there with you! I have tried to express to my husband how uncomfortable I am with my saddle (it's the one that came with my bike) but he doesn't think I could possibly have it as bad as he does w/ HIS anatomy. (Apparently, riding on tiny little seats with the twig & berries crammed into skintight pants isn't so comfy for the men, either.):p

Personally, riding on my stock saddle has given me SO much pain that I haven't gone riding in over 4 years. I kind of became hopeless. I started out with NO knowledge of proper cycling gear and I am ashamed that I gave up so easily... but riding just HURT! (I'll spare you the details!)

I'm now educating myself about the multitude of options that I actually have as far as making myself more comfortable while riding.

Needless to say, the first thing on my shopping list (well, besides KNICKERS) will be a new saddle.

I'm so glad this thread was posted & that it has so many responses that are helpful. It's nice to know I'm not the only one who has experienced discomfort with her 'lady bits'!

rowboatgirl

04-18-2008, 12:43 AM

Thanks guys! I guess it's off to get a new saddle before my century in September! And the "how to measure your girly bits" advice is AWESOME! I wasn't quite sure how to go about that whole process! :)

Oh and I'm riding a Giant FCR 2 W...I know it's not a super fast, awesome road bike, but it's a start and I'm going to ride it as hard and fast as possible until I can afford an upgrade!

TahoeDirtGirl

05-03-2008, 02:46 PM

I know from experience that you gotta take care of what you sit on. I always thought a chamois was so important well now I'm finding out that all it does for me now is sand the bits and they aren't really happy about that at all. I got a kidney infection from poor hydration and just being sloppy about hydration and hygeine (okay I fell asleep and didn't shower after) so I'm on the bench. I'm one of those women that if I don't urinate and rinse after sex, bike riding and swimming I'm sure to get either a UTI or a kidney infection if I ignore it. But for me, the big change I'm finding is riding with just normal shorts that are tight, such as a pair of Russell athletic shorts. Try it if you keep getting the bits sanded, you might not need the chamois at all. Now for mtn biking, I'm fine with a chamois, it's just when I ride on the road I can't take the chamois. I have a Terry Butterfly on my mtn bike and the stock saddle on my commuter bike. I'm switching the butterfly back and forth now as well because well, that stock saddle is not nice. It's really crazy how the cutout makes such a difference!

ridingmimsy

06-05-2008, 06:13 PM

Hi - I also have this problem - after having two kids, the girly bits are not as tucked in as they used to be. I am on a Dolce elite from Specialized. And am using the saddle it came with. I always get cut up on one side of the bits. I was wearing shorts that were too big (they were old). I just got two new pairs and am gonna buy that Terry Falcon X next. So thanks for the ideas!

greenme

06-20-2008, 11:09 AM

(New to posting but have learnt much lurking.) :)

Just wondering how much comfort should I expect when trying new saddles and or positions. I recently tried The Comfort Seat which has no horn and it was way worse than the seat that came with my bike.

I commute everyday to work and was just able to do my return trip before I needed to get that killer off my bike. Obviously my sit bones didn't match up with the design of the seat as every stroke felt like I was rolling my bones over a wooden surface. The bruise is just about gone now. I will be returning it. There was another hornless seat (I liked that part) which I will try but don't recall its name.

I guess my question is: Must I expect some sort of discomfort with any saddle I use and just aim to minimize it? Or is it possible to be totally comfortable, saddle-wise?

If it helps, my commute is about 7km one way and I do it in about 1/2 hour. (I'm in no hurry to get to work.)

emily_in_nc

06-20-2008, 06:50 PM

I guess my question is: Must I expect some sort of discomfort with any saddle I use and just aim to minimize it? Or is it possible to be totally comfortable, saddle-wise?

It is possible to be totally comfortable on rides that are not long *for you*. I think that even the best matched saddle to your own anatomy is going to be a bit uncomfy on your longest ride(s) ever (for example, on a century, if you normally ride 20-50 miles, say; or on a 10 mile ride if you normally ride only 2-3 at a time), but you will "toughen up" over time.

A saddle that doesn't fit you right may only get worse over time rather than better, like one I recently sold. I didn't realize that it was just too narrow for my sit bones. I had a chronic saddle sore (I mean, it was there for a YEAR! :eek:) that I could not get rid of even after several months away from cycling. That saddle would never have worked for me.

With a saddle that fits your anatomy, it will be better each time you ride. Starting out, you might get some soft-tissue pain after just a few miles, but if you ride consistently, you'll be able to ride further and further each time with no pain. I did a nine-day bike tour in 2004 in which I rode an average of 100K (63 miles) daily (no rest days!) on a Terry Butterfly saddle and had no unusual saddle problems. Sure, I suspect I was uncomfy at the end of the day and ready to get off the saddle, but nothing I can even recall now. So yes, a saddle CAN be comfortable! It can take awhile to find the one that is right for you, however.

Good luck!

Emily

BleeckerSt_Girl

06-20-2008, 07:58 PM

Another factor to keep in mind is that the more leaning forward (racing posture) you are on your bike, the less your weight will be on your sitbones (where it is comfortable to sit) and the more your weight will be on your sensitive soft front parts. Personally, I suspect much of this women's biking pain has more to do with how we sit as opposed to how 'bad' the saddle is.

And Rowboatgirl- are you leaning forward and down more when you climb hills? Maybe that's why there is more pressure then. Try going up hills in a lower easier gear, 'spinnning' up the hill and staying more relaxed with a slightly more upright posture.

One more thing- too many people "sit" on their bikes like it was a chair- with all their weight on their butt. It helps to think of yourself as "walking" on your bike, and to try to distribute your weight more evenly between your hands, butt, and FEET. When we put more weight on our feet and think of riding like walking, it alleviates pressure on the saddle parts. Think about it next time you are on your bike, and see if this mental adjustment doesn't make you feel more like you are floating on your bike instead of just sitting on it.

ima_bleeder

06-21-2008, 08:51 AM

When we put more weight on our feet and think of riding like walking, it alleviates pressure on the saddle parts.

This definitely helps me quite a bit on longer rides. Even very slight inclines can give you a little extra resistance on the pedals, and I try to take advantage of that extra resistance by engaging my glutes and letting my butt float on top of the saddle a little. Combining that with occasionally standing up for shorter climbs has significantly increased the amount of time I'm able to be comfy "in the saddle".

SuperTiff

06-21-2008, 12:44 PM

Hi all, I'm new here!

For what it's worth, I had a similar problem with the non cut-out saddles - after 2 hours or so, everything just goes numb - butt, nether regions, and it started to creep down my leg. I found relief with the Specialized Toupe saddle. It has a cutout and looks like the world's skinniest, skimpiest saddle, but the way the whole shell of the saddle flexes, it's incredible and solved my numbness issues....definitely worth a shot!

Ramdoride

07-10-2008, 03:06 PM

I'm new to forum and joined specifically because of the sore girly parts. Last year did the Southern Tier trip with WomanTours and was in the saddle for 50/58 days. For almost all of those days (like many of my fellow travelers) I had saddle pain. I tried switching saddles (went to Serfas) mid-tour and it was no better. When I returned home, I tried Terry Butterfly, and had even more pain. Switched to Selle Italia and rode out the season with it, satisfied. This past weekend, rode three days, a couple of them hard and had to pitifully ride into parking lot. Post-ride, I hurt so bad my husband could see it in my face. AARGH. I fear that my Selle Italia is not the saddle for consecutive, hard ride days. I am thinking of trying the Terry Falcon X, as my sitbones are 140 cm. I am not a racer by any means and have been professionally fitted by my bicycle shop (and am comfortable in every other area on my Serotta bicycle).

Has anyone tried the Falcon? Thoughts? other suggestions?

kadoozie

07-29-2008, 08:45 PM

I once asked a very close (male) friend of mine who is an ex-racer, "why dont women enter the really big bike races very much?"

Of course, he didn't have an educated reply like "because nobody makes the perfect saddle yet" lol, but instead something about "women dont have the same endurance/leg power/ blah blah blah..."

anyway, I wanted to contribute my saddle experience so far, I can use non-cut-out saddles at all, so bought a Selle Italia Lady Gel Flow and after a few adjustments, it's finally working for me

...now to deal with the chamois issues.... :rolleyes:

ASG

07-30-2008, 02:43 AM

Finally I discovered my problem… I was always complained about my intimate parts being totally on fire after a long ride, especially if I sweat too much or if for any reason I wet my butt on a river or something!

My riding girlfriends sometimes complain about it too, but not with the same regularity as me, and until today when I finally read about the size of labia I was still wondering "what it’s wrong with me"… :eek:

Now that I’m aware about it I can finally understand, but still I get the feeling that is a problem that will persist forever!

I bought a new saddle a few months ago (Selle Italia SLK Lady Gel Flow) and I’m feeling better on the front, although considering that is more tough saddle, in long rides sometimes I end with a bit of “buttache” ;)

Puffin

08-16-2008, 08:01 AM

I've just been silly and posted a similar thread before checking if there was one already going. Sorry.
I suffer the same problem - most likely larger than average bits (but i haven't compared either! :D)
I wonder if anyone has tried these saddles?
http://www.spongywonder.com/bikeseat.htm
As i said in my post - I see how all the Olypics track girls sit right up on the front tip of their saddles. Does this mean a noseless saddle is a big no-no?
it looks perfect to me :p

KnottedYet

08-16-2008, 10:29 AM

I bought one of the many varieties of the two-pad saddles a few years ago.

Scared the cr*p out of me, because it had no nose and very little contact, so suddenly I'd lost my means of controlling the bike! The only way I could ride with that saddle was if I plopped my butt down heavily and stayed that way.

Riding style is very important with this kind of saddle. I tend to dance with the bike more than sit on it, so it just didn't work for me.

Try one if it interests you, they are definitely a memorable experience! (whether it works for you or not, it is a hoot to ride on!)

I'm a member of the Brooks Cult, and have multiple B67 saddles. When you find the saddle that works for you, buy LOTS!!!

deeaimond

08-16-2008, 10:39 AM

Has anyone ever tried pointing the nose of the saddle down ever so slightly?

Yes definitely. I'm using my stock saddle, selle italia initiale. It's a men's seat i guess, but i pointed it down a little. takes significant pressure off the important bits.

some might disagree, but then a bike fit is just an estimate really based on someone elses measurements. Individually it's a whole different story. a straight saddle doesnt really make sense to me, coz the moment you lean forward a little all yr parts are pressed in, and since we road bike.. we're always leaning forward.

using jojoba oil generously down there and shaving clean before long rides also help alot. I get that burning sensation if i don't use the oil.

janellruby

08-18-2008, 03:52 AM

O.k. all you people that know what you are doing, i think i need advice. i just started biking on a beach cruiser a year ago, even got run over in november. bike is o.k., i've been riding it this summer to the american river about 30 miles out. I had a major embarassing problem the first time. I was out all day in longish cut-off jean shorts and a ( maxi-pad) I 'm serious here. not joking. never rode my bike that far before. when i got home, burning upon bathroom, has this ever happened to anyone before? so sorry, but we are all women here right?

wildhawk

08-28-2008, 10:43 PM

I have a Giant Innova hybrid with shock post - the original saddle was very uncomfortable. And yes, I had the burning, etc. after my first 15 mile ride. We went back to our bike shop and each purchased a Rav-X gel cutout unisex seat (The women’s model was too narrow for me). It is very comfortable and my husband, who wasn’t having any issues with his old seat, said it was better and he did not even realize how uncomfortable his old seat was until he switched. I have not ridden in cycling shorts yet (saving up for them), but I ride with my workout slacks and shirt and have not had any more issues with saddle sores/burning.

linkbeak

02-25-2009, 08:40 AM

I having started using the ReSkin product after I read about it in this thread. It really does the trick for me. They are expensive but worth it for me. They now have some distributors here in the US -- I was able to get the distributor here in Portland, OR to ship to me direct.

Linkbeak

BleeckerSt_Girl

02-25-2009, 09:32 AM

Wow Joyce, this is your second post here in.... five and a half years on TE?
What a chatterbox! :D ;)

Grits

02-25-2009, 02:02 PM

Has anyone tried the Falcon? Thoughts? other suggestions?

I tried the Falcon X. I ended up sending it back, but now I'm wondering if I made a mistake. I got it because of pain in the front, and it did solve that problem, but my back side felt bruised even after several long rides. I know that sit bone pain isn't supposed to be as much of an issue, but it was pretty painful so I sent it back. I am now trying a butterfly, and am waiting to do some longer rides on it before I decide.

papaver

03-06-2009, 02:32 PM

I have a Selle Italia Diva Gel Flow and it's really great. No pain at all, even after several hours.

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee261/fattiebert/6104-0006-N0806.jpg

Chandler

03-16-2009, 08:43 AM

I'm happy to see this thread is still fairly active...I am unsure where to turn for some info.
To make a long story short, I am a fairly new cyclist (started riding a little more seriously approx. 9 months ago). I have always exercised in one form or another, and started participating in sprint triathlons last Aug. Background provided to explain I am not a couch potato having suddenly ventured into endurance sports. . .
Nonetheless, two weeks ago, spur of the moment and on a slightly too large rented road bike (a really good one, but a 54 cm instead of my usual 52) I did the Death Valley Century. I had no idea I was going to do it, but did--and am still suffering the consequences. My entire crotch is numb. It doesn't hurt, it is simply numb. This numbness is most apparent when I wipe with toilet paper (and "enjoy intimacy", as they say in genteel conversation with my fiance). The inner tissue is not as affected as the outer. It had appeared to have improved just a little, but I tried to ride again (this time on my bike with a terry butterfly saddle) but even 53 miles seems to have set it back to where it was two weeks ago.
ANyone out there ever experience complete numbness? How long does it last? I assume I have caused some nerve damage; so I need to stop riding completely until it is no longer numb? This of course would be horribly frustrating as I am registered for my first tri in May, and the Sante Fe Century a week later, and am hoping to do a cycling tour for my honeymoon in AUgust. . .
Help!

Vineyard Rider

03-16-2009, 10:01 AM

Did you ever purchase the Terry Falcon X. I've been riding for two years now on the same seat and have the exact same issues you've described. I believe a new seat is in order;)

BleeckerSt_Girl

03-16-2009, 12:01 PM

If my saddle gave me a numb crotch for days after riding, I'd be buying and testing different saddles like crazy to avoid that. :eek: :(
Circulatory and nerve damage can become permanent.

Chandler

03-16-2009, 12:32 PM

BleeckerSt_Girl

03-16-2009, 12:54 PM

Yes, nerve damage is exactly what I'm worried about--it never occurred to me that more than TWO weeks after the ride I'd still have so much numbness. It has improved a little, but only a little. That there has been ANY improvement makes me feel a little better--but after trying to ride yesterday, on a good saddle that has never caused trouble--I am wondering if I should stop riding completely until this clears up. I'm hoping someone it out there that has had the same experience--I know bodies differ, but i'm sure there's an average recovery time--and it would be helpful to know what I'm looking at. 6 weeks? 8 weeks?
It's sure hard not to be discouraged.

If it's any help, my DH had problems with one saddle- he did a century on it and was suddenly very numb afterwards....and the numbness wasn't going away. :eek: He changed saddles and eased up a bit on riding, and the numbness very slowly went away- but it took about 3 months to completely disappear. :eek: Happily, it did disappear, and now he can ride as much as he wants on the new saddle. The 'bad' saddle is relegated now to his errand bike which only goes on very short trips around town. No more problems.
So don't get too scared....but do change your saddle! You may have to try several before you hit on one that works well for you.

OakLeaf

03-16-2009, 12:55 PM

I've never bruised a nerve "down there," but I've bruised nerves in my thumb and in my brachial plexus and it's taken months to recover. If that's any comfort to you...

I would DEFINITELY avoid doing anything that might cause further damage though!!!

Biciclista

03-16-2009, 01:20 PM

Yes, nerve damage is exactly what I'm worried about--it never occurred to me that more than TWO weeks after the ride I'd still have so much numbness. It has improved a little, but only a little. That there has been ANY improvement makes me feel a little better--but after trying to ride yesterday, on a good saddle that has never caused trouble--I am wondering if I should stop riding completely until this clears up. I'm hoping someone it out there that has had the same experience--I know bodies differ, but i'm sure there's an average recovery time--and it would be helpful to know what I'm looking at. 6 weeks? 8 weeks?
It's sure hard not to be discouraged.

Please do NOT get on that saddle. If I were your doctor (and that's who I think you should be talking to) I'd tell you to swim and run until you get your feeling back. IF you get it back. meanwhile, I suggest you go and get a professional fit, because if a "good" saddle has the same effect, it might also be the way you are sitting on it. Define good saddle. define saddle,
I'm curious what you've tried.

Aint Doody

03-16-2009, 01:35 PM

Several years ago I had an area on my leg that was numb. The dr. called it "swashbuckler's disease." It was nerve damage. It took months for it to come back. But on the leg is a lot easier to deal with than what you're describing. I also had a friend who had it on one foot--from shoes being too tight. Good luck. I hope you heal quickly.

Chandler

03-16-2009, 01:53 PM

Thanks for all the input, everyone. Since the cycle I rode in the Century was a rented bike that my fiance arranged for me (himself an endurance athlete with four ironman finished under his belt--i.e., not a slug or slacker, so he chose carefully) I have no idea what that saddle was.
Yesterday was my first day back on a bike after 2+ weeks; I rode a Lemond with a Terry butterfly saddle.
Since I do triathlon, I too have determined that it is best I stay off the saddle and run, swim and dance (which I also do) as my forms of exercise until the numbness completely abates. From what I've been able to research on the net, the point of trauma is the pudendal artery which controls blood flow to the urethra, clitoris and vagina. (A woman named Dr. Collins in the process of conducting a multi-year study specifically on women cyclists to address our health issues.) This atery is the female equivalent of the perineum artery, which is the one that causes male cyclists' genital problems. In both men and women, the artery in question is flattened after prolonged pressure is applied. It does appear that I have not caused permanent nerve damage but that the blood flow was constricted, is still constricted, and will simply take time to regain normal levels of blood flow while the artery regains its natural shape.
That's what I've learned so far. Big Fat Drag.
But at least I really don't think it's permanent.
Once healed, I will shop for the saddle that is right for my anatomy. In the meantime, I'm learning a lot.

Chandler

03-25-2009, 08:43 AM

I'm putting in an "update" for reference purposes for others, since there is SO LITTLE about female-specific cycling health specifically pertaining to the soft tissue/crotch issues. I have spent lots of time on the net, have spoken to two PTs (one who specializes in women's groin/pelvic girdle health issues), and a GP. It is the pudendal NERVE (not artery) that has been compressed. It is very rarely a permanent injury. It is a slow healer--we're looking at easily 6 weeks. There is not a lot one can do to speed the healing process, but the pelvic health PT recommended icing. . .fun!
In the meantime, I can finally tell that some healing progress has been made--but I'm still pretty numb. I did a careful spin yesterday on a very upright bike, and alternated sitting way back on the hip bones to spin with being up out of the saddle to spin--one position per song, so I was up 50% of the time. It does not seem to have had an adverse effect.
So that's the scoop! As they say, all's well that ends well!

cylegoddess

03-26-2009, 02:37 AM

Person who rode in jean shorts and a maxi pad -ouch! Just the thought of the jean seam makes me cringe and maxi pads I find, tend to 'dry' you out and cause chafing. I noticed this in a spin class. Get some bike shorts, even without chamois!

I have been riding a mens selle italia as my other saddle seems to have hit the bermuda triangle, in the ordering.Ouch! Better than old one( it was too wide at front) but man,no cut out. <Mens saddles suit me better, as I have narrow sit bones but thank god new one ( selle something, cant recall but is men, has ciut outs, and nose is slightly canted down.)
Orbea, has terry butterflys on their lower ends, but the better bike have selle italia.

Im finding that all shorts give me chafing on side of girly bits. Is it because they are mens? The cheap ones of course arent as good as moulded ones, but do I really need all this padding?

Fala

04-22-2009, 03:30 PM

I just started riding (yay!) with the intention of commuting 5.5 miles each way to work - in NYC! I went out for a 15 mile ride (totally nothing compared to all of you but hey, its been a while) and wow was I bruised! I'm just starting to feel better now (day 4) and plan on riding to work tomorrow, and will promptly get a new saddle as apparently the one that's on my bike is not so good for me! It has the cut out, but I think the nose is too wide. I also believe it is too cushy for my tush because I keep sliding off from one side to the other. Thanks for the recommendations! The expression on the bike shop guy's face will be priceless tomorrow!

Brachial Plexus injury pain lasting months?! Groan. I'm dealing with that now too - its been about a month and the pain has flared up again.

VGS

04-24-2009, 04:58 AM

Hi folks, I'm brand new here and I've got more info on here in the last few minutes than I have had in the last two months from my bike shop and bike nut husband.

I've only recently taken up road biking in anticipation of a big event I've got in a months time. I got a Trek 1.2 WSD and love it but am now on a test saddle trying that out. I get a cut between my inner and outer ladybits and abrasions elsewhere on them I believe purely because they are much larger than normal. Of course I don't want to have such discussions with the nice man at my local bike shop and I certainly ain't going to show him.

I am going in for an event that will be 81 miles and mostly I'd been doing 40 mile training runs but recovering quickly. At the weekend however I did 68 miles. After 15 I had to stop and adjust the saddle and borrow a friend's gel seat cover. Felt like I had a boat between my legs but I got round OK. Trouble is I also got a burning pain between my shoulder blades. After I got back I recovered pretty quickly but went out on a 28 mile ride three days later and I'm in agony. Cuts everywhere and my neck and vertebrae feel like there is something wriggling around in there coupled with the burning.

I feel really :( because my legs are fine and I'm really getting into the rides but I'm scared to get back on the bike because of the pain elsewhere. I've only got a month to go before the event. My bike is in for some nipping and tweaking to the handlebars to try to remedy the neck pain but it's now 2 days since my last ride and it's still burning.

ZenSojourner

04-24-2009, 06:07 AM

1) what are you wearing in the way of shorts/tights?

and

2) what's the old saddle, and what saddle are you currently testing?

VGS

04-24-2009, 06:59 AM

I've got Scott female specific 3/4 cycling shorts

The old saddle was a Bontrager one which came with the bike

The test one is by velo (I think) but it's much fatter. At first I thought it was OK but now I just don't know.

ZenSojourner

04-24-2009, 12:55 PM

Check out some Terry saddles. You can get a Terry saddle to try for 30 days with no questions asked return privileges. You might ask on the Terry forums about your problem too, they're at

http://forums.terrybicycles.com/index.php

One of the Liberators might be your best bet. According to the blurbs, they have a "larger cutaway".

Riding the wrong saddle is sheer torture. When I tried to ride the Terry Butterfly Ti, which is a "better" saddle than the Butterfly CrMo that came on the bike, I was miserable. I'm glad the CrMo worked for me because the thought of testing saddle after saddle to find the "right" one (or at least A right one) curdles my blood. In that case I was better of sticking to the saddle I already had, thank goodness the first saddle I tried was a keeper.

cylegoddess

04-25-2009, 05:34 PM

I found also, that, rather than thinking of sitting on saddle, I think of myself as three point contact - buns, feet, hands. Then weight is more even. Thats holding me until new saddle arrives.( selle SMP mens, as I have a skinny pelvis, being petite and small boned.)
Also, skinny chix will well, 'stick out' more down there. As well as comfy girls. So either end of spectrum, your going to have to get special saddle.

I still dont know what to do about shorts( other thread). Nothing works!

crankmaster

08-09-2009, 04:31 PM

My problem doesn't seem to be one that has been mentioned before, so I hope for some new suggestions.

I was one of the lucky people who had a good bike shop who insisted that my first saddle would be the ladies selle italia, so until buying a time trial bike I haven't had any difficulty. Now on my new bike with a selle italia ladies SLK saddle, I keep on getting a rubbed spot above the labia in the area where there is no hair - only on the right side though. I've solved pressure problems by tilting my saddle down 5 degrees, and I've put a new chamois in my skin suit (the old one was a men's chamois with a seam which I thought was causing the rubbing), but on today's 40 km time trial after 30 km I could feel that I'd rubbed the area raw again. When I'm not in the aero posistion this spot doesn't rub, so it's definitely due to being in the position where I'm rotated over and down more.

The guys use saddles with very soft noses, but after trying 3 of these, I find that I have to have the cutout to relieve pressure, but that isn't helping with the friction 'burn'.

Any suggestions

fotoladyvb

08-16-2009, 01:45 PM