What is a Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP)?
Cells on your cervix are constantly growing and changing. Unfortunately, these cells sometimes grow and change abnormally. These abnormal cells are usually first noticed on a Pap test. If you’ve had a Pap test or cervical biopsies come back showing dysplasia, a LEEP may be recommended as treatment for these cells. Dysplasia is not cancer, but can lead to cervical cancer if not treated. During a LEEP, your doctor can remove the affected tissue, including the transformation zone (where many problems begin). It is sent to the pathologist to be sure that: No cancer is present, and all the affected tissue was excised. About 95% of patients are cured of their problem following a LEEP. The LEEP will be scheduled during the first half of the menstrual cycle and 4-6 weeks after the initial biopsy after you have stopped bleeding. The procedure begins like a Pap test in that you will put your feet in stirrups and a speculum will be inserted into your vagina and opened. Your cervix will be numbed
