Perineal Nerve

Written by Janani Lambotharan

Last updated November 6, 2025
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Perineal Nerve - Podcast Version

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The perineal nerve (S2-4) is a nerve of the pelvic region and the largest terminal branch of the pudendal nerve.

It supplies motor innervation to the perineal muscles as well as contributing to the sensory supply of the perineum.

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Course

The perineal nerve arises from the pudendal nerve within the pudendal canal – a passageway within in the lateral wall of the ischioanal fossa.

After leaving the pudendal canal, the perineal nerve continues for another 2-3cm (acccompanied by the perineal artery) and then terminates by dividing into into two branches:

  • Superficial perineal nerve – gives rise to posterior scrotal/labial sensory branches.
  • Deep perineal nerve – supplies motor innervation to the perineal muscles and sensation to the vestibule and inferior vagina.
Anatomical diagram illustrating the course and branches of the pudendal nerve.

Fig 1
The perineal nerve arises from the pudendal nerve within the pudendal canal.

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Sensory Functions

The perineal nerve supplies cutaneous sensation via its two main branches:

  • Superficial perineal nerve – gives rise to posterior scrotal/labial sensory branches.
    • In males, supplies the skin of the perineum and posterior scrotum
    • In females, supplies the skin of the labia minora and majora
  • Deep perineal nerve – supplies the sensation to the vestibule and inferior vagina in females.
Illustration of the major structures of the vulva, including labia, clitoris, and mons pubis.

Fig 2
The perineal nerve supplies sensation to the labia, vestibule and inferior vagina in females.

Motor Functions

The deep branch of the perineal nerve provides motor innervation to the perineal muscles:

  • Bulbospongiosus
  • Ischiocavernosus
  • Superficial transverse perineal muscle
  • External urethral sphincter
  • Levator ani muscle