According to Professor Colin Duncan, a fertility expert at the University of Edinburgh, cycling is not generally a major concern for fertility specialists.
For women:
Cycling is only likely to affect fertility when physical activity is at an extreme level, such as elite athletic training. Very high levels of exercise can reduce body fat and, in some cases, disrupt periods and ovulation.
For men:
Prolonged cycling can increase the temperature around the testicles, which may affect sperm production. However, for most men, regular cycling is unlikely to make a meaningful difference to fertility.
Professor Duncan says the potential impact is more relevant for men who already have a borderline sperm count.
The takeaway:
You don’t need to give up your bike because you’re trying to conceive. But if you’re doing very high levels of exercise or have concerns about your fertility, it’s worth discussing your individual circumstances with a healthcare professional.
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol and frequent heat exposure can also affect sperm quality, so moderation is important.