Pudendal Block
The pudendal block gets its name because a local anesthetic such as,
lidocaine or chloroprocaine, is injected
into the pudendal canal where the pudendal nerve is located. This allows
quick pain relief to the perineum, vulva, and vagina. A pudendal block
is usually given in the second stage of labor just before delivery of
the baby. It relieves pain around the vagina and rectum as the baby
comes down the birth canal. It is also helpful just before an episiotomy.
Lidocaine is usually preferred for a pudendal
block because it has a longer duration than chloroprocaine
which usually lasts less than one hour.
Things to know about a pudendal block
A pudendal block may cause one or more of the following concerns:
- Large doses of local anesthesia may be needed to experience relief
- Local anesthesia medications enter the blood stream and cross the placenta
- Some babies have trouble breastfeeding immediately after birth
- Risk of local anesthetic toxicity
- Risk of a hematoma (blood clot)
- Risk of infection
Last Updated: 05/2007
Compiled using information from the following sources:
William’s Obstetrics Twenty-Second Ed. Cunningham, F. Gary, et al, Ch. 19.
Danforth’s Obstetrics and Gynecology Ninth Ed. Scott, James R., et al, Ch. 3.
Ransjo-Arvidson A et al. Maternal analgesia during labor disturbs newborn behavior: effects on breastfeeding, temperature, and crying. Birth 28(1):5-12.
The Physician's Desk Reference (Oradel,NJ: Medical Economics Go., 1996).