LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure)

For women diagnosed with abnormal cervical cell growth or cervical dysplasia, a Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) is often a recommended treatment option. This minimally invasive procedure, a LEEP biopsy or conization, uses a specialized wire loop to remove abnormal cells from the cervix. By removing these cells, LEEP can help prevent the progression of cervical dysplasia to cervical cancer, offering a safe and effective way to treat abnormal cell growth and promote long-term cervical health. 

In this article, we'll explore the details of the LEEP procedure, including what to expect before and during it and recovery guidelines.

What is LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure)?

A Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) is a minimally invasive procedure to remove abnormal cells from the cervix. During a LEEP procedure, a specialized wire loop is inserted into the vagina and guided to the cervix, where it uses electrical energy to precisely remove a small sample of tissue containing the abnormal cells. The procedure is typically performed in a doctor's office or clinic, takes only a few minutes to complete, and is usually done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. The removed tissue is then sent to a laboratory for further examination to confirm the diagnosis and ensure that all abnormal cells have been removed.

When is LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) Indicated?

LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) is typically indicated in the following situations:

Abnormal Pap Test Results

• High-grade cervical dysplasia: LEEP is often recommended for women with high-grade cervical dysplasia (CIN II or CIN III) to remove abnormal cells and prevent progression to cervical cancer.
• Low-grade cervical dysplasia: If the abnormal cells persist or worsen over time, LEEP may be recommended for women with low-grade cervical dysplasia (CIN I).

Colposcopy Results

• Abnormal colposcopy findings: If a colposcopy (a visual examination of the cervix) reveals abnormal cell growth or lesions, LEEP may be recommended to remove the affected tissue.

Other Indications

• Cervical cancer prevention: LEEP can be used to remove precancerous cells and prevent the development of cervical cancer.
• Diagnosis of cervical lesions: LEEP can be used to obtain a tissue sample to diagnose cervical lesions or abnormalities.
• Treatment of cervical polyps: LEEP can be used to remove cervical polyps, which are growths on the cervix that can be benign or precancerous.

How to Prepare for LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure)?

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare for LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure:

Pre-Procedure Preparation (1-2 Weeks Before)

• Schedule the procedure: You should schedule the LEEP procedure with your healthcare provider, usually 1-2 weeks in advance.
• Stop taking certain medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you take, especially blood thinners, aspirin, or ibuprofen.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities: To minimize the risk of bleeding or complications, avoid heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities.

Pre-Procedure Preparation (1-2 Days Before)

• Avoid vaginal intercourse: Avoid vaginal intercourse for 24-48 hours before the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid douching: Avoid douching or using vaginal deodorants, as these can irritate the cervix and increase the risk of complications.
• Take prescribed medications: Take any medications, such as antibiotics or pain relievers, as directed by your healthcare provider.

What to Expect During LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure)?

The procedure typically takes around 10-30 minutes to complete, and here is what to expect during LEEP:

Preparation

• You'll be positioned on an exam table, usually with your feet in stirrups.
• A speculum will be gently inserted into your vagina to hold it open and allow access to the cervix.
• The cervix will be cleaned with a mild solution to remove any bacteria or debris.

Procedure

• A local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, will be injected into the cervix to numb the area.
• A thin wire loop will be inserted through the speculum and guided to the cervix.
• The wire loop will be used to remove the abnormal cells from the cervix. During this process, you may feel a mild cramping or pinching sensation.
• The removed tissue will be sent to a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis and ensure that all abnormal cells have been removed.

Completion

• The speculum will be gently removed from your vagina.
• You may experience mild cramping or bleeding after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and sanitary pads.
• Your healthcare provider will provide post-procedure instructions. These include instructions on how to care for yourself after the procedure, including any medications, rest, or follow-up appointments.

What Does Recovery After LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) Involve?

Recovery after LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) is typically straightforward and may involve some mild discomfort, cramping, and bleeding. Here's what you can expect during the recovery period:

Immediate Recovery (First 24 Hours)

• Mild cramping and discomfort: You may experience mild cramping, similar to menstrual cramps, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
• Bleeding and spotting: You may experience some bleeding or spotting, which can be heavy at first but should decrease over time.
• Vaginal discharge: You may notice a thin, yellowish, or brownish discharge, which is normal and should decrease over time.

Short-Term Recovery (First Few Days)

• Rest: Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities for a few days to minimize the risk of bleeding or complications.
• Pain management: Continue to take over-the-counter pain medication as directed to manage any discomfort or cramping.
• Sanitary pads: Use sanitary pads to manage any bleeding or discharge.
• Avoid vaginal intercourse: Avoid vaginal intercourse for 4-6 weeks to allow the cervix to heal.

Long-Term Recovery (Weeks to Months)

• Follow-up appointments: Schedule appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor the healing process and remove any stitches (if necessary).
• Pap tests: You may need a Pap test 3-6 months after the procedure to ensure that the abnormal cells have been removed.
• Cervical exams: Your healthcare provider may perform regular cervical exams to monitor the health of your cervix.

Final Thought 

A Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) is a safe and effective treatment for removing abnormal cervical cells and preventing the progression of cervical dysplasia to cervical cancer. While the procedure may cause mild discomfort and bleeding, these symptoms are typically temporary and manageable.  

If you've been diagnosed with abnormal cervical cell growth, don't hesitate to discuss LEEP with your healthcare provider – it may be a vital step in protecting your health and well-being.