LEEP
(Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure)
The cervix is covered by a thin layer of cells that are constantly shedding and being replaced by new cells. Sometimes these cells become abnormal (dysplasia). Mild forms of dysplasia may go away on their own. More severe forms may not go away and may progress into cervical cancer. Exposure to HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) also increase a woman’s risk of cancer of the cervix.
The LEEP procedure uses a thin wire loop as a scalpel to remove a thin layer of abnormal surface cells. The procedure is usually done in the office using medicine to numb the cervix. Recovery is usually unremarkable except a bloody vaginal discharge for a few weeks.
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in the Contemporary Women’s Care website should be relied upon for medical education purposes only. It is not intended to replace the independent judgment of a health care provider. The appropriateness of a course of treatment for a patient may vary from the medical information provided herein due to individual conditions and/or complications.
