Pudendal nerve

The **pudendal nerve** is the principal somatic nerve of the perineum, originating from sacral plexus roots S2–S4. It is a mixed sensory and motor nerve, supplying sensation to the external genitalia (penis, clitoris, scrotum, labia), the anus and perineal region, and providing motor control to the external anal and urethral sphincters and pelvic floor muscles. Its functions include mediation of urinary and fecal continence, sexual function (including erection and ejaculation), and perineal sensory input. Injury or entrapment can result in neuropathic pain or functional deficits such as incontinence or sexual dysfunction. Clinically, it is also the target for pudendal nerve blocks for perineal pain management, especially during childbirth[1][2][3][5].

Other names

PudendalMain nerve of the perineumNerve of the pelvic floorNerve of the perineal region

Blockade of nerve transmission (e.g., via local anesthesia inhibits sensory and motor function for pain relief or surgical procedures)