Pudendal neuralgia
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 called pudendal nerve entrapment or Alcock canal syndrome
- prolonged sitting, cycling, horse riding or constipation (usually for months or years) this can cause repeated minor damage to the pelvic area
- previous surgery to the pelvic area
- a break in one of the bones in the pelvis
- damage to the pudendal nerve during childbirth this may improve after a few months
- a non-cancerous or cancerous growth (tumour) pressing on the pudendal nerve
In some cases, a specific cause isn't identified.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
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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