LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) is a 10 minutes’ procedure to remove abnormal cells from the cervix.

WHY IS LEEP (LOOP ELECTROSURGICAL EXCISION PROCEDURE) DONE? 

1. The doctor may recommend LEEP if during a pelvic exam, changes in the cervix are noticed

2.  Or the Pap test results do not appear normal

3. LEEP may diagnose and treat genital warts too- the possible presence of human papillomavirus (HPV), the increased risk factor for developing cervical cancer.

The Abnormal cells could be benign growths (polyps), or could be precancerous. Thus, necessary to be treated. Though the doctor may advise against a LEEP in case a patient has pelvic inflammatory disease or an acute cervix inflammation. 

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE LEEP (LOOP ELECTROSURGICAL EXCISION  PROCEDURE)?

• The LEEP should be scheduled for the week after periods
• Aspirin and NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) need to be avoided 5-7 days prior the procedure under doctor’s monitoring
• Procedure does not require fasting
• Carry a menstrual pad as bleeding might be experienced after the procedure

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE LEEP (LOOP ELECTROSURGICAL EXCISION PROCEDURE)? 

To perform LEEP, the doctor uses a small wire loop i.e. charged with an electrical current. The current heats the loop that allows it to act as a surgical knife.

• Doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina to spread the walls of the vaginal canal and give a clear view of the cervix 
• Cleans the cervix with vinegar or iodine solution 
• Administers  local anesthesia
• Passes the wire loop through the speculum
• Scrapes away any abnormal tissue
• Patient may feel a little  pressure or slight cramping
• Administered a paste-like medication to contain any bleeding 
• Removed tissue sent to the Lab for diagnosis

AFTER THE LEEP 

• Rest advised  for 10-15 minutes 
• Painkillers recommended
• Brown or black vaginal discharge expected 
• Next period could be late or heavier
• Tampons, menstrual cups, vaginal intercourse or penetration to be avoided for months
• Strenuous activity or heavy lifting too needs avoided for about a week 
• Frequent Pap tests, Regular pelvic exams could be advised

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

LEEP is safe  but carries few risks, such as: 

• scarring on the cervix 
• infections
• bleeding during or after the procedure 
• emotional changes
• sexual dysfunction
• difficulty conceiving  in the year after LEEP

The doctor must be contacted immediately in case of smelly vaginal discharge,severe belly pain, chills,fever, heavy bleeding after one week of the procedure.