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Glite Dictionary
pudendal block

pudendal block

1 8.6
An injection that numbs the nerves near the vagina to reduce pain during childbirth
  • noun
  • /pjuːˈdɛndəl blɒk/
  • Specialized
translation icon : bloqueo pudendo
  • The doctor administered a pudendal block to help reduce the pain of delivery.

Examples

  • A pudendal block is commonly used when an episiotomy is anticipated during childbirth.

  • The doctor administered a pudendal block during the delivery.

  • The effectiveness of a pudendal block can vary depending on the precise location of the injection.

  • Many women choose a pudendal block for pain relief.

  • The doctor administered a pudendal block to help manage the patient's pain during labor.

  • After discussing options, she chose a pudendal block for pain relief during her delivery.

  • In preparation for childbirth, the midwife explained the benefits of a pudendal block.

Synonyms

nerve block anesthesia
vspudendal block
  • Specialized
4.3

A way to numb one body part by injecting medicine near a nerve

is used to numb that small area specifically during childbirth to reduce pain
block anesthesia
vspudendal block
  • Specialized
5.2

A way to make part of the body numb by putting medicine near a nerve

is focused on numbing the same small area during childbirth rather than general use
regional anesthesia
vspudendal block
  • Specialized
4.1

Numbs a part of the body so you do not feel pain during surgery

is narrower used to numb a small area during childbirth not broad surgical use

Surface Forms

pudendal block singular
pudendal blocks plural

Morphology

pudendal + block

The term is compositionally built: 'pudendal' denotes the genital/ perineal region and 'block' conveys stopping or interrupting function, so a learner who knows both constituents can infer it means an intervention that blocks sensation in the pudendal area (i.e., a regional anaesthetic). This follows a common medical pattern (e.g., 'nerve block'), so despite being technical the meaning is directly derivable from the parts.

Etymology

Pudendal block comes from pudendal, a word for the body's genital area ('private parts'), and block, meaning to 'stop' the nerves from feeling. So the name describes a method to 'numb' that area and reduce pain during childbirth.