Proudly Part of Privia Health
Pudendal Neuralgia Near Lynchburg, VA
Get relief from chronic pelvic nerve pain with professional treatment.
What is Pudendal Neuralgia?
The pudendal nerve transmits sensations to the external genitals, lower rectum, and perineum (the area between the genitals and anus). There is one pudendal nerve on each side of the pelvis. When this nerve is damaged, it results in pudendal neuralgia, a form of nerve pain that affects the genital and rectal regions. The terms "neuralgia" and "neuropathy" are often used interchangeably to describe this nerve pain.
Pudendal nerve damage can happen suddenly due to trauma like surgery, falls, bicycle accidents, childbirth, or even severe constipation. It can also develop from long-term pressure on the nerve caused by activities such as cycling or heavy lifting, which strain the pelvic muscles. Additionally, conditions like diabetes or multiple sclerosis may contribute to nerve damage. Both direct trauma and fibrosis can cause the nerve to be compressed, often leading to further pain.
Pudendal neuralgia results in persistent pain in the vulva, vagina, perineum, and rectum. This pain can be sharp, burning, or aching and is often aggravated by sitting. The condition typically arises from injuries, surgeries, or prolonged pressure on the pudendal nerve.
Symptoms of Pudendal Neuralgia
Pudendal neuralgia can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Burning, stabbing, or aching pain in the genital or pelvic area
- Increased pain when sitting
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Pain during intercourse
- Feeling like there is something foreign in the vaginal or rectal area
- Improvement in symptoms when sitting on a toilet seat (relieves pressure on the nerve)
- The patient does not wake you up in the middle of the night, but may make falling asleep difficult There is no identifiable loss of sensation.
What is the Treatment for Pudendal Neuralgia?
Treatment for pudendal neuralgia aims to alleviate pressure on the nerve and minimize discomfort. Your healthcare provider may suggest a variety of approaches, including:
- Medications to control nerve pain
- Nerve blocks or injections to soothe inflammation and confirm the diagnosis
- Lifestyle adjustments to avoid actions that trigger symptoms
- Physical therapy focused on releasing tight pelvic floor muscles
For patients in Lynchburg, if other treatments are ineffective, options like surgery, neurostimulator placement, or nerve ablation may be explored.
Who Needs Treatment for Pudendal Neuralgia?
Treatment may be suggested for individuals who experience:
- Chronic pelvic or genital pain persisting for several months
- Increased discomfort while sitting, with relief upon standing
- Pain during or following sexual activity
- Difficulty with bowel or bladder function
- A background of pelvic surgery, trauma, or prolonged pressure in the pelvic region
What are the Risks?
For people in Lynchburg, untreated pudendal neuralgia can significantly impact daily activities, sexual health, and overall well-being. As the pain is nerve-related, it may worsen over time if left unaddressed. Early intervention is key to preventing further progression of symptoms.
Some treatments, such as nerve blocks or medications, may lead to side effects like temporary numbness, mild bruising, or drowsiness. Your healthcare provider will discuss these potential side effects with you and help you assess the pros and cons of each treatment option.
What To Expect
If you are experiencing symptoms that may indicate pudendal neuralgia, your healthcare provider will begin by reviewing your medical history, discussing your symptoms, and performing a pelvic exam. You may undergo imaging tests or nerve studies to gain a clearer understanding of the cause of your pain.
Your provider may also assess the pudendal nerve through a physical exam to determine if specific movements or positions trigger your symptoms. Based on these findings, they will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses both short-term relief and long-term management.
Treatment typically begins with conservative methods such as physical therapy and medications. For patients in Lynchburg, your provider will guide you through the available options, explain what to expect at each step, and offer support to ensure a smooth recovery.
Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology
Founded in 2018, the Center for Advanced Gynecology is committed to enhancing your well-being by providing specialized care in various medical areas, with a focus on gynecology and advanced surgical techniques when necessary.
Our team offers expert care in the non-surgical treatment of conditions like chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and pain related to the vagina, vulva, and bladder.
Since our inception, we've identified a growing need for comprehensive care in the Lynchburg community. In response, we have expanded our practice to include routine gynecologic services, cancer screenings, Pap smears, menopausal management, hormone therapy, breast care, contraceptive services, and treatments for urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
Frequently Asked Questions
The pudendal nerve runs through the pelvic region and is responsible for sensation in the genital and anal areas. When it becomes irritated or compressed, it can result in pudendal nerve pain, often described as burning, stabbing, or aching.
Pudendal nerve entrapment is one potential cause of pudendal neuralgia. This condition occurs when the nerve is compressed by surrounding tissues or blood vessels, leading to increased pelvic pain, especially when sitting.
Yes, physical therapy aimed at relaxing and stretching the pelvic floor muscles can reduce pressure on the pudendal nerve and offer significant long-term pain relief.
A pudendal nerve block involves an injection near the pudendal nerve to both confirm the diagnosis and provide temporary pain relief.
Pudendal nerve decompression surgery is a procedure designed to release nerve compression when conservative treatments like physical therapy and nerve blocks fail to provide relief. It can be performed either laparoscopically or with an open incision.
Yes, because the pudendal nerve affects genital sensation, pudendal neuralgia can lead to sexual dysfunction, including pain during intercourse, clitoral pain, or hypersensitivity to touch.
Chronic pelvic pain refers to persistent discomfort in the pelvic region, while pudendal neuralgia is a specific type of pain resulting from nerve signals originating from the pudendal nerve.
No, many individuals with severe pudendal nerve pain find relief through non-surgical treatments, including physical therapy, medications, and nerve blocks. Surgery is typically only considered when other methods have proven ineffective, and its success rate may vary.
Visit Pudendal Hope for detailed information and support.