LEEP is the abbreviation for loop electrosurgical excision procedure. This procedure treats precursor lesions of the cervix or other abnormal cell growths. The LEEP procedure is a gynecological surgical procedure that removes a small portion of cervical tissue using an electric current.
How is the LEEP procedure performed?
LEEP is performed by a gynecologist or an obstetrician. The procedure is usually performed in the office or an operating room setting. During the procedure, the patient must lie on his back with his lower part exposed. The doctor uses a speculum to view the cervix and then applies local anesthesia to the cervix area.
The doctor inserts the LEEP device into the cervix tissue and removes the abnormal tissue using electric current. The procedure usually takes 5-15 minutes and is usually painless.
Post-LEEP Process
After the LEEP procedure, it is normal to experience mild cramping, bleeding, and vaginal discharge. Slight vaginal bleeding or discharge is also normal after the procedure, which may last for a few weeks.
Your doctor will examine the samples taken to perform pathological analysis of the cervix tissue. According to the pathology results, whether additional treatment or follow-up is required will be decided.
Who is LEEP Suitable for?
The LEEP procedure is recommended for women with cervical cancer or abnormal cervical cell growth. LEEP may be an effective option for treating early stages of cervical cancer. It may also be used when abnormal cell growth is detected during a pap smear or other gynecological tests.