What is the LEEP Procedure and how can it remove abnormal cervical cells?
Let's continue learning about cervical cancer prevention this month.
😳Guess what? You don't need a hysterectomy if you have an abnormal pap!! Yes, back in the day that was a treatment but that is no longer necessary due to the LEEP procedure!
🤓It requires this little electrical loop in my hand to cut the abnormal cells off the cervix. Just using science to heal!
🤔What is a LEEP? It stands for Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure. It is one way to remove abnormal cells from the cervix by using a thin wire loop that acts like a scalpel. An electric current is passed through the loop, which cuts away a thin layer of the cervix.
😷How is it performed? In most cases, a LEEP is done in your doctor's office and only takes a few minutes. It will require a speculum exam and can be performed either with local anesthesia that is applied to the cervix via a needle or with local anesthesia and under sedation if you are anxious. I would say half of my patients want sedation and if you are a good candidate it is safe and helpful for me and my patient.
😉There are all different sizes and shapes of loops that your doctor can use depending on your anatomy and pathology. Once removed the piece of tissue will be sent to the lab to check the level of cervical dysplasia and to see if the margins or edges of the specimen are clear. Even if they are not, you can still have normal paps in the future!!
😔What should I expect during recovery? You may notice some bleeding, usually less than a normal period, mild cramping and the brownish-black discharge used from the Monsels paste that I usually use to prevent bleeding. While your cervix healing, I usually have patients refrain from intercourse or placing anything such as tampons inside the vagina for 4 weeks.
If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain or any concerns, contact your physician.
😐 What are the risks? The most common risk in the first 3 weeks after a LEEP is heavy bleeding. It has been associated with an increased risk of future pregnancy problems. Although most women have no problems, there is a small increase in the risk of premature births and having a low birth weight baby. In rare cases, the cervix is narrowed after the procedure. This narrowing may cause problems with menstruation.
😃What is my follow-up afterwards and how can I protect the health of my cervix? After the procedure, you will need follow-up based on your pathology report from the LEEP specimen. You will have cervical cancer screening to be sure that all of the abnormal cells are gone and that they have not returned. If you have another abnormal screening test result, you may need more treatment in the future.
You can help protect the health of your cervix by following these guidelines:
Have regular pelvic exams and cervical cancer screening. Don't neglect your health ladies!
Stop smoking or vaping! This increases your risk of cancer of the cervix due to the toxins!
Keep your immune system up to fight off the HPV virus which is the most likely cause of abnormal cervical cells. Eating right and staying active will do that!
Limit your number of sexual partners and use condoms to reduce your risk of contracting HPV.
Get your HPV vaccine to decrease your risk of cervical dysplasia! Prevention is key!
🤩Your physician will let you know when you could potentially need a LEEP and if you are a candidate!
Keeping you healthy!
Dr. E💛