A loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is advised as part of the diagnostic evaluation or treatment plan in case you get abnormal cervical cancer screening test results.
How is the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) performed ?
The loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is a method to excise abnormal cells from the uterine cervix by utilizing a thin wire loop that functions as a kind of surgical knife. An electric current is then passed through the loop, which helps to cut away a slim layer of the cervix.
The procedure is done as an outpatient type of procedure in the clinic or hospital. The procedure is of short duration, taking only a few minutes. It will be done either under intravenous sedation or under local anaesthesia.
The position for the procedure is you lying down on your back and placing legs in stirrups. The doctor will insert a speculum into the vagina as in for a pelvic examination.
The loop will have to be inserted into the vagina initially, then to the cervix. There are various sizes and shapes of loops that can be utilised.
Post the procedure, a special paste to stop and control any bleeding will be applied to your cervix. Electrocautery can also be used to stop bleeding.
The removed tissue will be studied in a pathology laboratory to confirm the final diagnosis.
What are the risks of loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) ?
The most frequent risk in the immediate three weeks after the procedure is heavy bleeding. If bleeding is too heavy, contact your doctor. The procedure is to be avoided when you have your menstrual period.
Sometimes, the procedure has been linked with a greater risk of future pregnancy problems. Although for most women there are no problems, there is a small increase in the possibility of premature birth and delivering a low birth weight baby. Very rarely, the cervix can get narrowed after the procedure, causing problems with menstruation and pregnancy.
What care should you take after the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) ?
After the LEEP procedure, you may have a dilute pinkish or brownish discharge, mild pain and cramping. Your cervix will take a few weeks to heal.
Whilst your cervix is healing, do not place anything in the vagina, like tampons or douches. Intercourse is also to be avoided for the first three weeks atleast.
What about the follow-up visits ?
Post the procedure, you must visit your health care provider for follow-up visits. Regular cervical cancer screening has to be undertaken to be sure that all the pathology has been removed.
Protect your cervical health by following the following guidelines.
- Having routine pelvic exams and cervical cancer screening tests.
- Stopping smoking and limiting alcohol intake—smoking increases risk of cervical cancer.
- Limit number of sexual partners and use condoms to reduce risk of sexually transmitted diseases.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
