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.