LEEP Procedure to Treat Cervical Dysplasia

Women with persistent low-grade or high-grade cervical dysplasia may be recommended to have a procedure called a LEEP. A LEEP is commonly recommended to women whose cervical biopsy results show abnormal cells on the cervix that may progress into cervical cancer if left untreated.

What is a LEEP?

LEEP is an acronym for loop electrosurgical excision procedure. A LEEP uses an electrically charged wire loop to remove abnormal cervical tissue. It is done under local anesthesia and normally on an outpatient basis in hospitals or in a doctor's office.

During a LEEP:

• the doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina
  
• an anesthetic is injected into the cervix to numb the area
  
• the use of as electrically charged wire loop is used to remove abnormal tissue
  
• a topical solution may be put on the cervix to stop any bleeding

A LEEP procedure is typically painless, however mild cramping may be felt during the procedure. It takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes to complete.

What to Expect After Having a LEEP

After a LEEP, you can expect mild cramping, dark vaginal discharge, and possible mild bleeding with discharge. Women who undergo a LEEP are recommended to use sanitary napkins as opposed to tampons following the procedure.

After a LEEP, no sex, douching tampons, or basically anything in the vagina is recommended for a certain amount of time. Heavy lifting and exercise should be avoided as well. The doctor will advise you how long you should avoid these activities.

About two weeks after the procedure, the doctor will follow-up with an in-office appointment. The doctor will check your cervix to see how it has healed and make any further recommendations. This is an important appointment and should not be missed.

It is crucial to follow-up with recommended regular cervical exams. Cervical dysplasia can return even if treatment is complete. Regular cervical exams are the only way to monitor for abnormal cervical changes.

Sources:

Josefson, Deborah. "Mild cervical dysplasia often reverts to normal." British Medical Journal 31813 February 1999. 7 March 2008.
http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1114903

"National Cancer Institute Fact Sheets." Human Papillomaviruses and Cancer: Questions and Answers. 06 June 2006. National Cancer Institute. 7 March 2008.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/HPV