PELVIC, GROIN & GENITAL PAIN

  • Pudendal neuralgia is a chronic pelvic pain condition caused by irritation or entrapment of the pudendal nerve. It can follow childbirth, pelvic surgery, trauma or prolonged sitting (cycling, driving, desk work).

    Common symptoms:

    • Burning, stabbing or sharp pain in the genitals, rectum, or perineum

    • Pain that worsens when sitting and improves when standing or lying down

    • Tingling, numbness or “electric shock” sensations in the pelvic area

    • Discomfort during or after sex or with bowel/bladder activity

    This condition can make sitting very uncomfortable, limit work, exercise and social life, and impact sexual health, sleep and emotional well-being.

    Treatment options:

  • Vulvodynia refers to chronic vulvar pain or discomfort lasting at least 3 months without infection or skin disease.

    Common symptoms:

    • Burning, stinging, irritation or rawness in the vulva

    • Pain that may be constant or intermittent

    • Discomfort with sitting, tight clothing, exercise or sex

    • Pain that may be localized or widespread

    Vulvodynia can disrupt sexual activity, exercise and daily comfort, often causing emotional distress, frustration or anxiety.

    Treatment options:

  • PGAD is a rare condition involving ongoing genital sensations (tingling, throbbing, swelling or unwanted orgasms) without sexual desire or stimulation. These sensations can last for hours or days and do not resolve with orgasm.

    Common symptoms:

    • Tingling, throbbing or pressure in the genitals

    • Swelling or sensitivity without arousal

    • Multiple unwanted orgasms that don’t bring relief

    • Symptoms worsened by sitting, vibrations or occur without trigger

    Potential causes include nerve issues in the pelvis or spine, hormonal shifts or medication changes (especially antidepressants).
    While not life-threatening, PGAD is emotionally distressing and can disrupt sleep, work, relationships and well-being.

    Treatment options:

  • Genitofemoral neuralgia occurs when the genitofemoral nerve in the lower abdomen or groin becomes irritated or injured — often after hernia repair, C-section, hysterectomy or trauma.

    Common symptoms:

    • Burning, stabbing or sharp pain in the lower abdomen, groin, or upper thigh

    • Tingling, numbness or sensitivity in the affected areas

    • Pain that worsens with walking, bending or touch

    • Sometimes pain occurs only on one side

    This condition can cause pain with walking, sitting or sexual activity, making exercise and rest uncomfortable and impacting sleep and focus.

    Treatment options:

  • Post-herniorrhaphy syndrome is chronic pain lasting more than 3 months after hernia surgery. It may result from nerve irritation, scar tissue or mesh-related inflammation.

    Common symptoms:

    • Aching, burning or stabbing pain in the groin or lower abdomen

    • Tingling, numbness or sensitivity near the surgical site

    • Pain that worsens with walking, lifting or sexual activity

    • Sometimes pain radiates into the thigh, scrotum or labia

    This persistent pain can limit activity, cause discomfort with clothing pressure and interfere with work, exercise and intimacy, often leading to emotional frustration or worry.

    Treatment options: