The Pudendal nerve runs on either side of the perineum. The pudendal nerve is a major nerve in the pelvic region, responsible for both sensation and motor functions in the perineum (the area between the anus and genitals), external genitalia, and lower portion of the urinary and digestive systems. 

This nerve can be damaged due to sitting for long periods of time. Those of us in wheelchairs, cyclists, horseback riders can all experience damage in this region. 

Pudendal neuralgia in females can feel like a sharp, stabbing, burning, or shooting pain in the pelvic area, often worse when sitting. It can also manifest as numbness, tingling, or a feeling of swelling. The pain may radiate to the buttocks, thighs, lower back, or genitals. Sexual dysfunction, difficulty with urination/defecation, and a general feeling of pelvic pain are also common symptoms. 

Most of these symptoms can be controlled with medications, although not always. Another option is to have a procedure called a Pudendal Nerve Block. 

I have been receiving this procedure for several years about every two to three months. It involves laying on your stomach in a sterile room while a specialist inserts a syringe with steroids and numbing medication into each nerve ending. This process takes  20-30 minutes and the results can ease 50-80% of the pain and last 2-3 months, sometimes less, sometimes more. 

Everyone’s pain varies depending on damage and individual pain tolerance regardless if male or female.

My advice: find a good pain specialist who listens to your description with compassion and knowledge.