Pudendal Neuralgia

Pudendal neuralgia is chronic pelvic pain that is caused by the damage or irritation of the pudendal nerve, the main nerve in the pelvis.

 

The pudendal nerve provides blood flow to the following areas:

• lower buttocks

• area between the buttocks and genitals (perineum)

• area around the anus and rectum

• vulva, labia and clitoris in women

• scrotum and penis in men

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Symptoms of pudendal neuralgia

The main symptom of pudendal neuralgia is pelvic pain. Any of the areas supplied by the pudendal nerve can be affected.

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Other symptoms include:

• pain that feels like a burning, crushing, shooting or prickling sensation

• pain that may develop gradually or suddenly

• pain may be constant – but worse at some times and better at others

• pain may be worse when sitting down and improve when standing or lying down

• numbness and pins and needles in the pelvic area

• increased sensitivity to pain – you may find just a light touch or wearing clothes uncomfortable

• feeling as though there’s swelling or an object in your perineum – often described as feeling like a golf or tennis ball

• needing to go the toilet frequently or suddenly

• pain during sex, difficulty reaching orgasm, and erectile dysfunction in men