pudendalnärv

The pudendal nerve is a mixed nerve originating from the sacral plexus, specifically from the S2, S3, and S4 nerve roots. It is the main nerve of the perineum, the region between the anus and the scrotum or vulva. The pudendal nerve travels through the pelvis and then enters the perineum, where it divides into several branches.

These branches supply motor and sensory innervation to various structures. Its motor functions include controlling the external anal sphincter, the external urethral sphincter, and the muscles of the pelvic floor, such as the bulbospongiosus and ischiocavernosus muscles. These muscles are crucial for sexual function, urination, and defecation.

Sensory innervation from the pudendal nerve covers the skin of the perineum, the external genitalia (penis and scrotum in males, clitoris and labia in females), and the anal region. This sensory input is vital for sexual arousal and pleasure, as well as for the sensation of pain, temperature, and touch in these areas.

Dysfunction of the pudendal nerve can lead to a range of symptoms, collectively known as pudendal neuralgia or pudendal nerve entrapment syndrome. These symptoms may include chronic pain in the perineum, genitals, or anus, often worsened by sitting. Other symptoms can include altered sensation, such as numbness or tingling, and difficulties with bladder or bowel control, or sexual dysfunction. Causes of pudendal nerve problems can include injury during childbirth, prolonged sitting on hard surfaces, trauma to the pelvic region, or compression from surrounding tissues. Diagnosis often involves a combination of clinical examination, patient history, and sometimes imaging or electrodiagnostic tests. Treatment aims to relieve pain and improve function and may involve physical therapy, medication, or in some cases, surgical decompression.