What is a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)?
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) uses a wire loop heated by electric current to remove cells and tissue in a woman’s lower genital tract. It is used as part of the diagnosis and treatment for abnormal or cancerous conditions.
The lower genital tract includes the cervix and vagina. The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus and the vagina connects the cervix and the vulva.
With LEEP, an electric current passes through the fine wire loop to cut away a thin layer of abnormal tissue. This tissue will be sent to the lab for testing. LEEP can also remove abnormal cells to allow healthy tissue to grow.
Why might I need a LEEP?
LEEP may be done when cervical or vaginal problems are found during a pelvic exam, or abnormal cells are found during a Pap test. LEEP is also done to detect cancer of the cervix or vagina.
Cells that appear to be abnormal, but are not yet cancerous, may be called precancerous. These abnormal cells may be the first evidence of cancer that could develop years later.
LEEP may also be used to assist in the diagnosis or treatment of the following conditions:
Polyps (benign growths)
Genital warts, which may indicate infection with human papilloma virus (HPV), a risk factor for developing cervical cancer
Diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure in women whose mothers took DES during pregnancy, as DES exposure increases the risk for cancer of the reproductive system
Your healthcare provider may have other reasons to recommend LEEP.
What are the risks for a LEEP?
Some possible complications may include:
Infection
Bleeding
Changes or scarring in the cervix from removal of tissue
Trouble getting pregnant
Potential for preterm birth or having a low birth weight baby
If you are allergic to or sensitive to medications, iodine, or latex, tell your healthcare provider.
If you are pregnant or think you could be, tell your healthcare provider.
There may be other risks depending on your condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before the procedure.
Certain factors or conditions may interfere with LEEP. These factors include:
Menstruation
Acute pelvic inflammatory disease
Acute inflammation of the cervix
How do I get ready for LEEP?
Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure and you can ask questions.
You will be asked to sign a consent form that gives your permission to do the procedure. Read the form carefully and ask questions if something is not clear.
Generally, no preparation, such as fasting or sedation, is needed.
If you are pregnant or think you may be, tell your healthcare provider.
Tell your healthcare provider if you are sensitive to or are allergic to any medicines, latex, tape, iodine, and anesthesia.
Tell your healthcare provider of all medicines (prescribed and over-the-counter) and herbal supplements that you are taking.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any blood-thinning medicines (anticoagulants), aspirin, or other medicines that affect blood clotting. You may be told to stop these medicines before the procedure.
Your healthcare provider will tell you not to use tampons, vaginal creams or medicine, douching, or having sex before the procedure.
LEEP is usually done when you are not having your menstrual period.
Your healthcare provider may recommend that you take a pain reliever 30 minutes before the procedure.
You may want to bring a sanitary napkin to wear home after the procedure.
Follow any other instructions your provider gives you to get ready.