Leep Procedure
What is a Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP), and why is it done?
Suppose you have an abnormal cervical cancer screening result. Your health care professional may suggest that you have a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) as part of the evaluation or treatment (see the FAQ085 Cervical Cancer Screening). LEEP is one way to remove abnormal cells from the cervix using a thin wire loop like a scalpel (surgical knife). An electric current is passed through the loop, which cuts away a thin layer of the cervix.
Who gets this procedure?
Your doctor may recommend this procedure if they notice changes to your cervix during a pelvic exam or if your Pap test results are abnormal. Abnormal cells could be benign growths (polyps), or they could be precancerous. If left untreated, precancerous cells may develop into cervical cancer. Removing the cells will allow your doctor to determine what they are and whether further observation or treatment is needed. Your doctor may also order a LEEP to diagnose and treat genital warts. Genital warts can indicate human papillomavirus (HPV), and HPV can increase your risk of developing cervical cancer.
If you have a pelvic inflammatory disease or acute cervix inflammation, your doctor may advise against a LEEP. A cone biopsy, which is done surgically, might be better for you. Some doctors will recommend a laser procedure (or cryotherapy) where the area of concern is frozen and subsequently dies and sloughs off.
Are there any risks?
LEEP is safe and effective. There are just a few risks.
Risks can include:
- Infection
- Bleeding during or after the procedure (though the tool helps seal the surrounding blood vessels to minimize this risk)
- Scarring on the cervix depending on the amount of tissue the doctor needs to remove
- Difficulty getting pregnant in the year after the procedure
How is LEEP performed?
A LEEP should be done when you do not have your menstrual period to better view the cervix. In most cases, LEEP is done in a health care professional’s office. The procedure only takes a few minutes.
You will lie on your back and place your legs in stirrups during the procedure. The health care professional will then insert a speculum into your vagina in the same way as a pelvic exam. Local anesthesia will be used to prevent pain. It is given through a needle attached to a syringe. You may feel a slight sting, then a dull ache or cramp. The loop is inserted into the vagina to the cervix. There are different sizes and shapes of loops that can be used. You may feel faint during the procedure. If you feel faint, tell your health care professional immediately.
After the procedure, a special paste may be applied to your cervix to stop any bleeding. Electrocautery also may be used to control bleeding. The removed tissue will be studied in a lab to confirm the diagnosis.
CONTACT US!
Celebration Obstetrics & Gynecology
Monday-Friday: 8am-5pm
Saturday-Sunday: Closed
Call Toll Free: (877) 800-0239
THREE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!
Celebration Office
410 Celebration Place Suite 208
Celebration, FL 34747
Davenport Office
2209 North Blvd, Ste. C
Davenport, FL 33837
Winter Garden Office
1997 Daniels Rd.
Winter Garden, FL 34787