LEEP (Loop Electrosurgery Excision Procedure)

A LEEP is a gynecologic procedure performed in order to remove abnormal cells from the cervix. Gynecologists prescribe this practice after identifying atypical growths in the cervix via a colposcopy or Pap smear. It is also a diagnostic test that helps in the diagnosis or treatment of:

• Polyps.
• Genital warts.
• Diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure in women whose mothers took DES in pregnancy, as DES increases the risk for cancer of the reproductive system.

During a LEEP, your doctor uses a heated wire loop to cut away a thin layer of tissue which can be beneficial because a) it can produce a sample to be sent to a lab for further testing, or b) directly remove abnormal cells and let healthy tissue grow.

Remember: It’s normal to feel nervous prior to a LEEP, the Women’s Health Institute team have compiled all the information you need to feel comfortable on the day of.

• LEEPs are performed at our facilities in Georgia. 
• Much like a regular pelvic exam, you should feel minor discomfort as you lie on the exam table.
• Your doctor will place a grounding pad on your thigh to protect you from the electricity. They will also insert a speculum to get a clearer view of the area. Also, a solution is applied to make abnormal cells visible. Local anesthesia might be applied to numb your cervix, too.
• Once your cervix is numb, the doctor will insert the heated loop through the speculum until it reaches your cervix.
• You should remain still during the process.

Although you may feel a small pinch or sting when the doctor injects the numbing agent, the procedure is virtually painless. It can be a bit uncomfortable because of the speculum and the minor scraping, but most patients can tolerate it very well.

Some patients might feel lightheaded during the procedure; if this is your case, you should let your doctor know.

It is normal to feel tired afterwards. You should get plenty of rest on the day of your procedure.

During your recovery, you can expect:

• Cramping for a few days.
• Drainage or spotting for 7-14 days.
• Restrictions on exercise and activity for 2-7 days.
• Restrictions on intercourse—you should wait up to 4 weeks to have intercourse to let your cervix heal. Similarly, you should avoid douching or inserting tampons, sex toys, etc., too.

LEEP is both a diagnostic tool and a treatment in itself as well. When the tissue is removed, cervical dysplasia (abnormal cell growth) is often cured as the abnormal cells are eliminated.

In some instances, you may need a second visit to completely remove the cells or if the abnormal cells return. You’re at a greater risk of recurrence if you’re infected with a high-risk strain of the human papillomavirus, or HPV. HPV is responsible for the cell changes associated with cervical dysplasia that can lead to cervical cancer without treatment.

Check out our Office Information for more on your gynecologic tests.