Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP). is a treatment to remove abnormal cells from the cervix to prevent cervical cancer. The procedure uses a small electrical wire to remove the abnormal cells from the cervix. The procedure is usually done in a doctor’s office and takes only a few minutes. The doctor uses a speculum to open the vagina in order to see the cervix clearly. The cervix is numbed, and then a small tool with a wire loop is used to extract abnormal cells from the cervix. Cramping for a couple of days is common after the procedure. Patients will be advised to avoid putting anything in the vagina for a few weeks following a LEEP procedure to avoid infection, including vaginal intercourse.
LEEP is a very effective treatment for removing abnormal cells, but it does carry some risks, including infection, damage to organs, bleeding and anesthesia complications. Pregnancy after a LEEP does have the risk of preterm labor and preterm delivery.
