Definition | Reasons for Procedure | Possible Complications | What to Expect | Call Your Doctor

Definition

Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) uses a thin wire loop to precisely cut out areas of the cervix. The cervix is a neck-like structure that connects the vagina and uterus. LEEP is done to remove abnormal cervical cells.

Reasons for Procedure

LEEP is often done after abnormal cells have been found on the cervix. These abnormal cells are often found on a Pap test. If the cells found on a Pap test show cervical dysplasia (abnormal cells) or cancer cells, a LEEP may be done.

Possible Complications

If you are planning to have LEEP, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

  • Menstruation at the time of the procedure—It is best to have LEEP done when you do not have your period.
  • History of pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Inflammation of the cervix
  • Pregnancy or possible pregnancy
  • Being overweight
  • Smoking

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the procedure.

What to Expect

In the weeks leading up to the procedure:

  • Talk to your doctor about your medicines. You may be asked to stop taking some medicines up to one week before the procedure, like:
    • Anti-inflammatory drugs (eg, aspirin )
    • Blood thinners, such as clopidogrel (Plavix) or warfarin (Coumadin)

The day of the procedure:

  • If your doctor will be giving you a sedative, arrange for someone to drive you home from the clinic.
  • If directed by your doctor, take a pain reliever right before the LEEP.
  • Bring sanitary napkins to use after the procedure.

Local anesthesia is often used for a LEEP. This will keep you from feeling pain during the procedure. You will be awake during the procedure. The anesthesia may be applied with a lotion or injected into the area.

You will lie on your back on a table with your feet up in foot rests. The doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina. This tool will separate the vaginal walls. This will allow the doctor to see the cervix. Anesthesia will be applied to the cervix to numb the area.

The doctor will then apply a solution to the cervical area. The solution will show the abnormal area that needs to be removed. The doctor will insert a thin wire into the vagina toward the cervix. You will hear a vacuum-like noise. You may also hear a humming noise. The thin wire loop is like a surgical knife. The doctor will be able to gently remove the abnormal tissue. You will need to stay very still. The doctor will cauterize the area. This process heats the blood vessels to stop bleeding. A paste may also be applied to stop bleeding.

LEEP only takes a few minutes.

You may feel cramping during LEEP. You should not feel any sharp pain.

Your blood pressure and heart rate will be checked. Once you are feeling okay, you will be able to go home.

After the procedure, you may have:

  • Dark brown-black vaginal discharge for several days
  • Mild cramping
  • Watery pink discharge

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

  • Rest when you get home.
  • Frequently change the sanitary pad.
  • Take pain medicine as directed.
  • It will take a few weeks for your cervix to heal. For four weeks:
    • Do not use tampons or douches.
    • Refrain from sexual intercourse.
    • Do not do any heavy lifting.
    • It is okay for you take baths and showers.
  • If advised by your doctor, have a Pap test and pelvic exam every six months.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Heavy bleeding (more than your normal period)
  • Bleeding with clots
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Fever or chills
  • Unusual odor or discharge

In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.