HomeAnswersNeurologynerve compressionHow is perineal numbness treated?

What can cause genital numbness?

Share
What can cause genital numbness?

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At December 7, 2017
Reviewed AtJuly 27, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have been riding my bike a lot more recently and now I noticed that I am having numbness within the perineal region including scrotum and penile area. I have stopped riding since the onset of symptoms and it has been over a week now. Should these symptoms resolve with time if I quit riding? Please suggest.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com. The two most common causes of perineal or genital numbness is compression of the nerves in your spine (called as cauda equina) or compression of the nerves in the perineum itself. Only sensory loss is uncommon but still possible in cauda equina syndrome (CES), since it is more commonly associated with other symptoms. Compression of nerve in the perineum typically occurs in cyclists. I will suggest you to go to the closest ER (emergency room) urgently. You need to be evaluated to reach the correct diagnosis. They may also order an magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for you to identify the exact site of nerve compression since the treatment varies as per the site of compression. Delay in treatment may make the symptoms irreversible.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

What is the treatment for perineal nerve compression most often? Are nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and rest the treatment? Please guide.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com. Yes. You are right. NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and rest are the main treatment given for perineal nerve compression. In addition the following need to be done. 1. Use of ring cushion to sit. 2. Avoid straining during micturition and emptying your bowels. Wish you a speedy recovery.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Chandan Mohanty
Dr. Chandan Mohanty

Neurosurgery

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Neurology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy