Pronunciation: [pjˈuːdəndə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "pudendal" is pronounced as [pyoo-den-dl] and refers to the nerve that supplies sensation to the genital region. The term is derived from the Latin word "pudendum", meaning "that which causes shame". The spelling of "pudendal" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), where "p" is pronounced as [p], "u" as [yoo], "d" as [d], "e" as [en], "n" as [n], "d" as [d], "a" as [a], and "l" as [l].
Pudendal is an adjective that refers to the region of the body known as the pudendum or external genitalia. Derived from the Latin term "pudenda," meaning "parts to be ashamed of," it typically pertains to structures and functions associated with the male and female reproductive organs.
In anatomy, the pudendal region encompasses various anatomical structures, including the penis, scrotum, clitoris, labia majora, labia minora, vaginal opening, and perineum. It is a significant area involved in sexual arousal, reproduction, and elimination.
The pudendal nerve, a vital component of the pudendal region, is responsible for transmitting sensory and motor information to and from these external genitalia. It supplies the muscles controlling urination, bowel movement, and sexual function, such as the bulbospongiosus and ischiocavernosus muscles in males and the bulbocavernosus muscle in females.
Medical conditions affecting the pudendal region or nerve can lead to various symptoms, including pain, numbness, and erectile or urination dysfunction. These conditions may include pudendal neuralgia, pudendal artery occlusion, or perineal trauma.
Overall, the term pudendal relates to the external genitalia and associated structures, highlighting their role in reproduction, sexual pleasure, and the function of the lower urinary and gastrointestinal systems.
Relating to the pudenda, pudic.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "pudendal" is derived from Latin. It comes from the Latin term "pudendus", which means "that which brings shame or modesty". The term "pudendus" itself is derived from the Latin verb "pudere", which means "to be ashamed". Hence, "pudendal" is related to the concept of modesty or shame, particularly referring to the external genitalia or the areas of the body associated with sexual desire.
