In-Office Surgical Procedures Specialist

What is a LEEP?

A loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is a type of surgery that uses a wire loop with an electrical current running through it. Our team uses the loop like a scalpel to remove abnormal cells from your cervix or vagina. We then send these cells to a lab for testing.

Why would I need a LEEP?

If your Pap test comes back with abnormal results, the team at Balanced Births may have you come in for a follow-up test, like a colposcopy. This procedure provides more information about why the Pap results were abnormal. 

We may take a small tissue sample (biopsy) for lab testing if she sees an area of suspicious tissue during your colposcopy. If the biopsy results reveal the tissue is precancerous, we may perform an in-office LEEP to remove it. 

Just because you need a LEEP doesn’t mean you have cancer. However, LEEPs play an important role in preventing cervical cancer that may develop years down the road. 

We may also use a LEEP for other reasons, such as removing noncancerous growths (polyps) or genital warts.

What happens during a LEEP?

Our team performs LEEPs right in our office so you don’t need to worry about going to a hospital. During the procedure, you lie on your back with your feet in supports just as you would for a pelvic exam. 

Then, a speculum is inserted into your vagina and numbs your cervix with a local anesthetic. A wire loop tool, which gets heated by the electrical current, is used to remove the abnormal tissue in thin layers. Then, a bandage-like paste is applied to stop the bleeding.

What should I expect after a LEEP?

After the numbness wears off, it’s common to experience mild cramping. You may also notice a brownish-black discharge from your vagina as you shed the bandage paste. 

It takes a few weeks for your cervix to heal from the surgery. We will provide you with instructions on how to care for yourself at home, which may include avoiding sexual intercourse and tampons for a period of time. 

For convenient, in-office surgical procedures, call the team at Balanced Births, or book an appointment online today.