The Benefits of Dermoplast Postpartum

Having a baby isn’t an easy process, whether you end up birthing vaginally or by Cesarean section. If you had a vaginal birth, you may have soreness, tears, or tenderness in your vagina and perineum (otherwise known as the area between the vagina and the anus). But you don’t have to suffer in silence—postpartum numbing spray to the rescue! 

Postpartum numbing sprays (often referred to as Dermoplast®) numb the area and aid in overall healing. 

Learn more about how to use postpartum numbing sprays like Dermoplast and how they work to soothe your sensitive spots after birth.

What Is Dermoplast?

A postpartum numbing spray is a topical anesthetic designed to relieve pain and swelling after childbirth. It works by temporarily numbing the skin, offering quick relief, especially during the first few days to two weeks postpartum.

These sprays typically contain a numbing agent, such as lidocaine or benzocaine. While both are effective, lidocaine is generally considered stronger and longer-lasting.

Many sprays also include skin-soothing ingredients like aloe vera, lanolin, or witch hazel, which help calm and moisturize sensitive skin, providing added comfort during recovery. 

Does Dermoplast Work?

In a word, yes! A perineal numbing spray can make a big difference in your comfort level in the first few days and weeks after giving birth, especially when you have a bowel movement.

These sprays won't completely rid you of all postpartum pain, since the way they work is localized, which means they will only have an affect on exactly where you apply them. So, using a numbing spray won’t have any affect on cramping, uterine pain, or pelvic floor tenderness.

But they can make a huge difference for the comfort of your labia, vagina, perineum, or anus, especially on the skin's surface. If you had a tear or other small abrasion or cut during birth, a postpartum numbing spray may help you feel much better.

Still, these types of sprays will not work as well as a pain medication you take by mouth, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

A numbing spray usually takes a few minutes to start working and can last up to four hours.

Dermoplast vs Other Perineal Sprays

Most postpartum numbing sprays work the same, although many moms may prefer the name brand because it's a familiar brand and often highly-recommended. But any spray that is designed for use postpartum and contains a numbing agent will work to help relieve pain.

There are other perineal sprays on the market, including quite a few that contain only herbal or cooling agents rather than ingredients that actually numb the vagina and perineum. These sprays are designed to relieve skin irritation rather than directly relieve pain.

It’s up to you if you want to use a spray that numbs or a spray that only delivers moisture and cooling. There’s no wrong choice—it’s all about what will work best for you.

How Do You Use Dermoplast?

For best results, apply postpartum numbing spray to a clean vagina, perineum, and anus. You may want to incorporate it into your routine post-shower or after using a peri-bottle in the bathroom. Be sure the area you want to apply it to is fully dry before application.

One of the best things about a numbing spray is its easy, mess-free application—no need to deal with creams on sensitive skin. Simply shake and spray on any tender areas, covering the general region as needed.

Most sprays are safe to use up to four times a day, but if you find yourself needing it more frequently, check in with your healthcare provider for guidance.

Are Postpartum Numbing Sprays Right for Me?

and can even interrupt their ability to sleep. Vaginal pain can be a really negative part of the postpartum experience, so a numbing spray can really help your overall physical and mental health.

You may love the idea of using a postpartum numbing spray, or you may decide it’s not for you. Many mothers find a ton of relief with this product, while others don’t find it makes much of a difference in their pain relief or their overall healing process. It’s really down to your individual situation and preferences.

You can always buy a spray to keep with your postpartum supplies. If you use it and it helps, great! If not, you can toss it or give it to another mom (if unused, of course!). 

Potential Problems with Postpartum Numbing Sprays

Since they’re topical, the sprays are pretty low-risk overall. However, if you had a significant tear (3rd or 4th degree) or an episiotomy, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor or midwife to make sure this kind of numbing spray is appropriate for you and your body at this time.

As with anything you're putting in or on your body (especially something you’re using in a sensitive area that is more prone to infection after birth), it’s important to consider any potential interactions. 

Check the label to ensure all ingredients are safe for you, including any allergies. This is especially important if you have skin that was broken in a tear or episiotomy (rather than just swollen or tender) because having a bad reaction to the spray can cause a more intense skin reaction and extended healing time.

If you have a wool allergy, note that Dermoplast® contains lanolin, which is a product made from wool grease. Some people may react to it, while others won’t.

If you find a postpartum numbing spray isn’t helping or is causing problems (like itching, redness, or irritation), stop using it. There are other options to help these areas heal.

What You Can Use In Addition To (Or Instead Of) Dermoplast

While a postpartum numbing spray is a great, low-risk option for your perineal comfort after birth, it’s by no means the only option. Stay flexible with your pain management plan, as you never know what might work for you based on your birth experience, how fast you’re healing, and how your body handles pain.

Other options for perineal healing and pain relief include:

• Ice packs: A cold sensation in the area can relieve pain and ease swelling. You can use ice packs specially made for the postpartum period or whatever you have at home.
• Padsicles: In this easy, homemade option, menstrual pads are soaked in water, witch hazel or liquid aloe and frozen. They’re great options; you can make them before labor and delivery and take one out as needed. Many women like to wear these in the first few days postpartum to combine that ahhhh feeling of cold with the soothing ingredients.
• Cooling pads: These are commercially made menstrual pads that have witch hazel, essential oils and other ingredients applied to them to give your skin a cooling sensation.
• Herbal perineal sprays: These sprays are usually made with water and plants that are known to soothe skin, such as aloe, calendula, cucumber, and witch hazel.
• Sitz baths: A sitz bath is a warm, shallow soak that soothes and cleans the genital area. You can use your bathtub or a toilet insert (available at most drugstores). It can be done with plain water, Epsom salts, or postpartum-safe herbal blends, which are often available online or at health food stores.

You can use one or a combination of these for your comfort after birth. Many people like a combination of ice, numbing spray, and witch hazel pads. Others may feel the cold of an ice pack is great during the first week but appreciate the warmth of a sitz bath when healing is less acute. Feel free to switch it up!

Rest (especially for the first forty days after birth)  is also an important way to help heal your tissues when you are newly postpartum. Stay cuddled up in bed or on the couch as much as possible—this will help your body use its energy for healing. 

Spend some time thinking about what perineal pain relief options seem right for you. Then,  buy supplies to have on hand once your baby is born. Whatever you choose, chances are it will provide some much-needed soothing in your postpartum experience. 

There are so many tools out there to help you heal after birth. Consider nutritional supplements to aid in your healing journey after birth, too.