National Vulvodynia Association

As you know, Lidocaine 5% is a widely prescribed temporary anesthetic that vulvodynia sufferers apply to the vestibule shortly before having sex. A substantial number of women, however, report burning upon application, typically lasting 15 to 30 seconds (or up to two minutes in some women).

At a recent NVA meeting, Board member Kathy Polletto said that her ob/gyn prescribed Lidocaine with an Ellage base, an alternative lidocaine that doesn’t burn. Ellage, formulated for sensitive skin, is self-emulsifying and muco-adhesive, ideal for the mucosa of the vulvar vestibule. A compounding pharmacist combines 5% Lidocaine HCl and an Ellage base, creating a non-irritating and quickly absorbed gel.

If you experience burning with Lidocaine and your health care provider agrees to prescribe this alternative, ask for the name of a reputable compounding pharmacy in your area.