Need Laundry Tip--Diaper Oinment & Chamois

[OakLeaf]

Hi... I'm new here - I know this thread is a little old, but I was going through the forums and your questions definitely sounded like some of the problems I used to go through (back in the day when Terry saddles were a brand new thing, and the whole idea of gear and clothing made to fit women was revolutionary).

You've gotten good advice so far, but just a couple of other things.

The first one might be really obvious to you, but it took me YEARS of bleeding labia to figure it out: Trim that hair. As short as you can get it with scissors. Shaving or waxing aren't usually a good idea because of the risk of ingrown hairs and infections. But if you're as hairy as I was, it's like sitting on a ScotchBrite pad. Of course it's going to abrade.

I also used to use really thick lubes like A&D ointment or Aquaphor, but I'm much more comfortable since switching to the lighter Chamois Butt'r - which incidentally washes right out without turning the rest of your laundry greasy.

[bikerbarb]

I used to have the same problem with the Desitin. It starts oozing through onto the bike seat as well as being impossible to get out of the pants. I read here on TE that zinc oxide type ointment holds bacteria. I switched to Butt'r and it works great, comes out and even comes in little packets to bring along with you which is great.
As for the rub, I can only say that I put in 3-4000 miles a year and do best with the Terry saddles--the liberator on my touring bike and a lighter one on my light weight bike. In spinning class I use a gel seat w/a cutout.
Good luck!

[Xrayted]

I would advise you to find an LBS that can do a professional fit and one that will treat you and your body with respect. What part of the country do you live? There are lots of us here who know great LBS's that we could guide you to a good place.

Also, buy a book that can show you what/how to adjust or search "bike fit" online. There are tons of sites and they can help you get more dialed in until you can get everything evaluated by a pro. I have a strong suspicion though that they sold you a bike that doesn't fit you. Top tube height and leg length is only the start. Don't let them off the hook for selling you a bike that they didn't fit you to correctly.

I'd go with the chamois butter. It washes out nicely. But, let things heal in the meantime. You should never be bleeding from riding your bike. That azzhole that suggested you toughen up down there is an idiot.

good luck. I hope you are back on your bike and enjoying it very soon.