Local anesthetic injection

A local anesthetic might be used to quickly numb the vaginal area to prepare for an incision to make the opening of the vagina bigger (episiotomy) or repair a tear after delivery. The drug is injected into the area around the nerves that carry feeling to the vagina, vulva and perineum.

A pudendal block is a type of local anesthetic injection that might be used shortly before delivery to block pain between the vagina and anus (perineum). It can also be used to relieve pain during the repair of a tear after delivery. The local anesthetic is injected into the vaginal wall near the pudendal nerve and takes effect in 10 to 20 minutes.

Pros

Local anesthetics temporarily numb a specific area. Negative effects for mother and baby are rare.

Cons

Local anesthetics don't relieve the pain of contractions. An allergic reaction is possible. Rarely, they can produce a toxic reaction, affecting your central nervous system or heart.