Source: Mikael Häggström/Wikimedia Commons
Pain in the pudendal nerve usually manifests as a burning sensation or numbness in the genitals, anus and/or perineum. It can also be felt as pain, numbness or a sense of deadening in the genitals.
This nerve is what allows the vulvar-vaginal complex to send signals to the brain and vice versa. It is the main nerve that connects to the spine, allowing for signals to be sent to the vagina from the brain and, in turn, from the brain from the vagina. Normal sexual function is sent through the autonomic nervous system, in which the pudendal nerve acts as the hub for sexual function.
Despite the pudendal nerve being a huge part of a functioning sexual system in the body, it is often left out of medical speak or practice. In fact, only recently has this nerve even been put on the sexual health map.
There is a relatively new line of thinking that a normally functioning pudendal nerve is a key player in sexual wellness, especially for those with a vulva. The ability of this nerve to send messages to the brain and vice versa may have an impact on an overall sense of well-being and happiness for vulva owners.
A blockage of or damage to this nerve is what causes many issues with low libido, lack of orgasm, and genital numbness. It is suspected that damage to the pudendal nerve may also play a part in some instances of vulvodynia, a cause of general pain in the vagina and vulva. This can be a constant pain, occasional pain, or pain during sex.