Sex and the sore crotch

Ok, I don't think this is a TMI question after some of the postings I've seen on the board but I've been pondering this a while.I'm new to the saddle and am still trying to get past post-ride pain or discomfort in the labia,vagina area. I'm not in a relationship and extremely grateful for that right now considering my discomfort. With all the the talk I've seen about "tender, blistered, bumpy, chafed, cracked or sores in the nether regions", how do you all cope when the hubby or significant other is in the mood? Do you grin and bear it? Are you used to the pain? :eek:

I'm pretty new to biking and this group, but I bought myself a new (Terry) saddle almost immediately after I bought my new bike because the stock seat was HORRIBLY uncomfortable! Could be that you need a new seat, padded shorts (I'm also new to using those and now swear by them) and also maybe need to adjust the angle of your seat a bit so it's not digging into tender bits. :)

no, I'm not used to the pain, and if i did have pain, my DH would understand that it wasn't going to happen.
last summer, I had to stop suddenly and hurt myself almost crashing...
No good guy would ever expect you to submit to pain like that. of course not!

and if this is always happening you need a new saddle or at least you need to be fit to your bike.

1. There is a bit of a break-in period in which your vulva does get a bit used to the pressure/friction. 2. Good cycling shorts with a chamois that suits you are important. 3. chamois cream (Assos, Chamois Butter, Asmaster, Belgum Budder) give your tender bits "glide" instead of friction - it's important. 4. You may need a different saddle - try some different saddle shapes to see if something feels more comfy (see the saddle threads here on TE). 5. sometimes just adjusting your saddle position (height, fore/aft, nose up or nose down) is helpful. And honestly, after more than 75 miles, love is not so much in the air at my house! Tokie (ps, it also helps to keep your hair trimmed very very short) You can search threads for most all of the above concepts!

Chamois cream makes a huge difference for me. Also agree with trimming.

If you are uncomfortable, try soaking in the bathtub after a good ride. And afterwards ask for a massage. ;) Fall asleep during massage and PRESTO! you're good as new. :D

You don't have to be uncomfortable. I am in a relationship and I ride a fair amount, and there's not conflict. If I had pain, I certainly would not 'grin and bear it!' I'd take care of the pain and if the boy had a problem with that, well he'd be out on the steps. Sounds like you may want to explore getting a new saddle and/or bike fitting.