During the second stage of labor, the patient experiences a strong urge to bear down due to pressure on which nerves?

During the second stage of labor, the strong urge to bear down is primarily influenced by the sacral nerves. These nerves are responsible for transmitting sensations from the lower pelvic area and play a crucial role in the sensation of pressure as the fetal head descends into the birth canal. The activation of sensory receptors in the pelvic area, particularly in association with the stretching and pressure from the presenting part of the fetus, stimulates the reflex that prompts the mother to bear down.

While other nerve pathways, like the femoral and obturator nerves, have roles in lower limb function and may have some involvement in pelvic sensation to a lesser extent, the sacral nerves are specifically linked to the structures and sensations of the pelvic floor and perineum during delivery. Therefore, it is the sacral nerves that are directly associated with the urge to push in the context of labor.