A loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is a type of gynecological treatment for precancerous or cancerous cells in your cervix.
Our team at The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group have extensive experience performing LEEP on an outpatient basis. We use advanced LEEP technology to eliminate abnormal and cancerous cells from your cervix without the need for incisions or risky surgery.
One of the most common ways to identify abnormal or cancerous cells in your cervix is through preventive screenings.
Our team offers pelvic exams and Pap smears, two important screenings that can confirm changes in your cervical cells. These tests can identify cervical cancer in the earliest stages, when treatment is typically most effective.
During a Pap smear, we take a sample of cells from the entrance of your cervix and assess them under a microscope. If we find precancerous or cancerous cells, your results will show as an abnormal Pap smear.
After an abnormal Pap smear, we may recommend additional diagnostic tests or treatment with LEEP.
LEEP uses currents of electricity to remove a thin layer of your cervix. The device has a thin, wire loop, and electricity passes through it. The loop works like a surgical knife to remove abnormal tissue from your cervix.
Typically, LEEP takes 10 minutes or less and requires no incisions. Our physicians pass the loop device through your vagina to access your cervix. We can provide you with a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable and minimize any pain or cramping you may feel during treatment.
After your LEEP is complete, we can apply a paste or use electrocautery to control any bleeding. The tissue we remove will be further evaluated for cancer or other underlying disease to determine if you need additional treatment.
After your LEEP is complete, it’s normal to experience vaginal discharge and mild cramping during recovery. It will take several weeks for your cervix to fully heal and during that time, you should avoid intercourse, tampons, and douche.
We provide follow-up appointments to ensure you’re healing properly and free of infection. Our physicians can let you know when you can resume sex and other activities based on how fast you heal.
If you have more serious side effects from LEEP, such as heavy bleeding or severe abdominal pain, you should contact our office immediately for further evaluation.
You should have a routine pelvic exam and Pap smear to ensure your reproductive system is healthy and functioning optimally. If you have a family history of cervical cancer or other risk factors for cancer, you may need to schedule Pap smears more often.
Our team can determine how often you need preventive screenings based on your unique personal and family medical history. In addition to LEEP, we can also provide guidance if you have cervical cancer or another type of reproductive cancer.
We offer a variety of gynecological surgeries, including da Vinci® robotic surgery, to protect your overall health and preserve your reproductive functions. Our surgeons can also use advanced robotic surgery technology to perform a minimally invasive hysterectomy.
To schedule a Pap smear or to see if LEEP can help you, book an appointment online or over the phone with The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group today.
