Pudendal neuralgia
Introduction
Pudendal neuralgia is a type of long-term (chronic) pelvic pain that originates from damage or irritation of the pudendal nerve.
The pudendal nerve is one of the main nerves in the pelvis, supplying areas such as the:
- lower buttocks
- area between the buttocks and genitals (perineum)
- area around the back passage (rectum)
- vulva, labia, and clitoris in women
- scrotum and penis in men
Pudendal neuralgia can be very uncomfortable and distressing, but help is available and there are several treatments that can be tried.
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Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 29 Nov 2016
Introduction
Find out about pudendal neuralgia, including what the symptoms are, what can cause it, and how it can be treated.
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. The pain may: feel like a burning, crushing, shooting or prickling sensation
When to getmedical advice
See your GP if you have persistent pelvic pain. Don't delay seeking advice if the pain is causing problems. Pudendal neuralgia can continue to get worse if left untreated, and early treatment may be
Tests for pudendal neuralgia
Your GP will ask about your symptoms and may carry out an examination of the area to check for any obvious causes of your pain. If they think you could have pudendal neuralgia, or they're not sure wh
Treatments for pudendal neuralgia
Treatments for pudendal neuralgia include: avoiding things that make the pain worse, such as cycling, constipation or prolonged sitting it may help to use a special ring-shaped cushion when sitti
Causes of pudendal neuralgia
Pudendal neuralgia can occur if the pudendal nerve is damaged, irritated or squashed (compressed). Possible causes include: compression of the pudendal nerve by nearby muscles or tissue sometimes c
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