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Understanding Straddle Injury
We understand that gender is a spectrum. We may use gendered terms to talk about anatomy and health risk. Please use this information in a way that works best for you and your provider as you talk about your care.
A straddle injury takes place in the groin area between the thighs. It can result from straddling a hard object. Or it can be caused by accidents, such as falling onto a bicycle crossbar.
The injury can cause damage to the area between the genitals and the anus (perineum) and the outer genitals. In female anatomy, this is the vulva. It includes the outer and inner labia and the clitoris. In male anatomy, this includes the scrotum, testicles, and penis. The injury can also damage the tube that sends pee out of the body (urethra), especially for men.
The groin area will likely be bruised, bleeding, and painful. Severe injury can also break bones in the pelvis. Falling on a sharp object can cause more severe damage to the area and internal tissues, such as the vagina or rectum.
The two main types of straddle injuries are:
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Blunt injury.This usually causes minor damage to the outer genitals, such as cuts, scrapes, or hematomas (blood blister under the skin). Blunt injuries rarely cause serious damage to the groin area.
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Penetrating injury.This is more likely to be a serious injury and often needs surgery.
What causes a straddle injury?
The injury can happen in many ways, such as a sports-related accident or falling while straddling any of these:
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Bicycle crossbar
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Fence or wall
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Gym equipment
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Edge of bathtub
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Arm of a couch or chair
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Diving board
Symptoms of a straddle injury
Symptoms of a straddle injury may include:
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Pain.
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Bruising.
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Swelling.
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Bleeding.
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Trouble peeing, especially for men.
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Upset stomach (nausea) or vomiting, if testicles are damaged.
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Hematoma.
How is a straddle injury diagnosed?
Your health care provider will ask about your medical history. Your provider will do a complete physical exam to find out how severe the injury is. If you are in a lot of pain due to the injury, you may be sedated during the physical exam. You may also have tests, like an ultrasound or MRI, to find out how badly you are injured.
Treatment for a straddle injury
Treatments can include:
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Bandage.Your health care provider may put a bandage over any area that’s bleeding. Keep the bandage clean and dry. Change it as often as instructed.
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Cold compress.This is a cloth wet with cold water, or it is a cold pack from the refrigerator. It can help reduce swelling and pain. Wrap the cold pack with a thin, clean cloth. Don’t put it directly on your skin. Use the cold compress on the area for 15 to 20 minutes. Do this several times a day for 2 to 3 days.
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Sitz bath.This means sitting in a shallow tub of warm water. You can do this in a bathtub. Or you can use a special basin that fits over the rim of a toilet.
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Pain medicine.You may be given prescription medicine to help ease pain. Or you may be told to take over-the-counter medicine. Take the medicine as instructed.
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Suprapubic cystostomy.This is a thin, flexible tube (catheter) put into your bladder through a small cut in your lower belly. It’s used to drain pee while your urethra heals. A small plastic bag connects to the end of the tube to collect pee. The tube may be left in place for several weeks or longer.
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Surgery.In some cases, the provider will need to stitch cuts in the skin or fix torn internal areas. Your provider will give you more information if you need surgery.
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Tetanus prophylaxis.Based on your injuries, your provider may suggest care to help prevent tetanus, a disease caused by a bacterial infection.
Possible complications of a straddle injury
Possible complications include:
When to contact your doctor
Contact your health care provider right away if you have:
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A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised.
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Pain that gets worse or doesn’t feel better with medicine.
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Other symptoms that get worse or don’t get better.
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Trouble peeing.
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Blood in your pee.
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Other new symptoms.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Lalitha Kadali Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN Online Medical Reviewer:
Sabrina Felson MD Date Last Reviewed:
4/1/2025
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
