Pudendal neuralgia
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
- develop gradually or suddenly
- be constant but worse at some times and better at others
- be worse when sitting down and improve when standing or lying down
Other symptoms can include:
- 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
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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