Before the injection: numbing cream, then local anaesthetic
A strong numbing cream is left on for 30 minutes. Skin in this area absorbs it well, so it numbs more deeply than the face. Local anaesthetic is then injected at 2 points with the smallest needle available. It feels like an ant bite for 2–3 seconds. This is the part you feel most, and most women rate it 2–3 out of 10.
During the injection
I use a blunt-tipped cannula through a small, already numb entry point. What you feel is pressure and tightness as the gel goes in, not a sharp pain. It takes 20–30 minutes. You lie in the same position as a pelvic exam, covered with a drape, with a female assistant in the room, and you can ask me to stop at any time.
The first 3 days after
The anaesthetic wears off in 2–3 hours. After that the area feels tight and swollen, similar to a bruise. You can sit and walk. Urinating does not sting, because nothing is injected near the urethra. Loose trousers help a lot. Paracetamol is enough for most women.
Days 4–14
Swelling goes down noticeably in the first week. Any bruising fades in 7–10 days. Avoid sex, soaking in water and cycling for 14 days. After that, sensation returns to normal and the area feels softer than before.
What I do to keep pain to a minimum
- Leave the numbing cream on long enough, without rushing
- Use the smallest needle for the anaesthetic and inject slowly
- Use a cannula instead of a needle, with only 1–2 entry points
- Warm the gel close to body temperature
- Apply a cold compress as soon as we finish
- Avoid your period where possible, because the skin is more sensitive
Pain that is not normal
Pain that increases after day 3, pain at one spot together with pale or dark skin, fever, or an area that is swollen, red and hot: contact me straight away. These are rare but need to be seen quickly.
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