She Strengthens

Understanding LEEP: A Minimally Invasive Procedure for Cervical Health

LEEP, or Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure, is a medical procedure designed to remove abnormal tissue from the cervix for testing and treatment of cervical cancer or human papillomavirus (HPV). This quick and relatively painless procedure is performed in a doctor’s office under local anesthesia.

Effectiveness and Benefits

Research has shown that LEEP is as safe and effective as conization, a more complicated and costly procedure, in treating precancerous cervical conditions. The key benefits of LEEP include:

• Minimally invasive procedure
• Can be performed in a doctor’s office with local anesthesia
• Results can reveal and remove cancerous or precancerous tissue

When is LEEP Used?

LEEP may be recommended if your Pap test or gynecological exam reveals abnormal cells. The procedure can also be used to confirm a cancer diagnosis or to treat precancerous conditions caused by HPV.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While LEEP is generally safe, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of, including:

• Cramping and light bleeding
• Infection
• Cervical scarring

Preparing for LEEP

To prepare for your LEEP procedure, be sure to:

• Discuss the best time for your procedure with your doctor, considering your menstrual cycle and scheduling availability
• Eat and drink normally, as fasting is not required
• Inform your doctor if you may be pregnant, as a pregnancy test will be administered on the day of the procedure
• Avoid taking aspirin for 7 days before your appointment, as it can increase bleeding

What to Expect During LEEP

During the procedure, you can expect:

• A thorough explanation of the procedure and answers to any questions you may have
• A grounding pad on your thigh to prevent electrical shock
• A speculum to open your vagina, allowing your doctor to access your cervix
• Local anesthesia to numb your cervix
• The use of an electrified thin wire loop to remove cells from your cervix

Recovering from LEEP

After the procedure, you can expect:

• Some discomfort, which can be managed with ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Brownish discharge or period-like bleeding for 1 to 4 days
• Avoidance of tampons, menstrual cups, and sexual intercourse for 2 weeks
• A follow-up appointment with your doctor 2 to 4 weeks after the procedure to ensure proper healing

Next Steps

After your follow-up appointment, your doctor will discuss next steps based on your lab results. Regular Pap tests and pelvic exams will be necessary to ensure continued cervical health. If your lab results show precancerous or cancerous cells, your doctor will outline treatment options tailored to your unique condition, history, and age.