Pudendal and paracervical blocks for childbirth

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Pudendal and paracervical blocks for childbirth

Pudendal block

To relieve pain associated with the second (pushing) stage of labor, an injection called a pudendal block can be given through the vaginal wall and into the pudendal nerve in the pelvis, numbing the area between the vagina and anus (perineum). Pudendal blocks do not relieve the pain of contractions.

A pudendal block works quickly, is easily administered, and does not affect the baby. It is given shortly before delivery, but it cannot be used if the baby's head is too far down in the birth canal (vagina).

Paracervical block

An injection of pain medication into the tissues around the cervix is called a paracervical block. A paracervical block is another form of local anesthesia. It decreases the pain caused by contractions and stretching of the cervix. A paracervical block lasts about 1 to 2 hours.

Sometimes the baby's heartbeat can slow down after a paracervical block is done. Paracervical blocks are rarely done today because epidural anesthesia is more effective.

Credits

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Author	Bets Davis, MFA
Author	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated	December 5, 2007

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Last updated:	December 05, 2007
Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Reviewed By:	Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine, Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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