Editing Local anesthetic (section)

==== Second-generation effects ====
Application of local anesthetics during oocyte removal during in vitro fertilization has been up to debate. Pharmacological concentrations of anesthetic agents have been found in follicular fluid.<ref name=":2" /> Clinical trials have not concluded any effects on pregnant women. However, there is some concern with the behavioral effects of lidocaine on offspring in rats.<ref name=":2" />

During pregnancy, it is not common for local anesthetics to have any adverse effect on the fetus. Despite this, risks of toxicity may be higher in pregnancy due to an increase in unbound fraction of local anesthetic and physiological changes increase the transfer of local anesthetic into the central nervous system.<ref name=":2" /> Hence, it is recommended that pregnant women use a lower dose of local anesthetic to reduce any potential complications.