Do numbing creams ever help restore sensation?
Numbing creams do not restore sensation; they temporarily block nerve signals and are sometimes used to manage pain, not increase sensitivity.
Detailed Medical Explanation
Numbing creams (containing lidocaine or similar agents) are used for temporary relief from discomfort or pain but work by reducing sensation. They are not recommended for women seeking to improve vaginal nerve function or restore sensitivity. Always use under clinical supervision. NHS: Lidocaine.
Clinical Context
Use of numbing creams without indication can worsen numbness. If you have ongoing loss of sensation, seek medical advice.
Evidence-Based Approaches
NHS and NICE do not recommend numbing creams for sensory restoration (NICE CKS).