The LEEP (Loop Electro-surgical Excision Procedure) is a procedure performed to remove abnormal pre-cancerous or cancerous cells, which allows for new healthy cells to grow. In most cases, a LEEP procedure only takes a few minutes.
How is it done?
The start of this procedure is similar to that of a pelvic exam and can be done in the comfort of our clinic. A solution will be applied to the cervix with a cotton swab to highlight any abnormal cells. Your cervix will then be numbed with local anesthesia to assist in any discomfort associated with this procedure.
An instrument called a Loop will be inserted into the vagina; an electrical current is passed through the thin wire of the Loop, acting like a scalpel. The Loop cuts a thin layer of surface cells off the cervix—this tissue is removed and sent for examination. You will be notified with the results and recommendations within approximately 1 week of the procedure.
A special paste will be applied to your cervix to stop any active bleeding. Over the next several days you will experience a discharge from this paste along with some bleeding. This discharge may be described as “coffee grounds” in appearance; however, this is normal and will subside within a week of the procedure.
It will take a few weeks for the cervix to heal—for 4 weeks after the procedure do not have sexual intercourse, use tampons or vaginal douches.
Generally speaking, a LEEP is roughly 80% curative for pre-cancer of the cervix, so follow up observations will be necessary.
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