pudendal block

Last reviewed 01/2018

In this technique analgesia is administered to the perineum. A pudendal block may be administered via a transperineal or transvaginal route.

Advantages of this technique include :-

• negligible fetal and maternal mortality and morbidity resulting directly from this technique
• simple procedure - but must allow 15 minutes to work
• no impairment of uterine contractions
• anaesthetizes large area of vagina and perineum
• there is no interference in the desire to bear down during labour

Disadvantages include :-

• very high failure rate
• only adequate for procedures such as the simplest forceps delivery.