Leep Loop Procedures

A loop electrosurgical excision procedure or LEEP is a treatment commonly used to treat cervical cancer. LEEP is an outpatient procedure commonly performed in doctor's offices and clinics.

Function

• The primary function of LEEP is to remove cells that are abnormal or cancerous from the opening of the cervix.

Identification

• During LEEP, the doctor utilizes a wire loop that acts like a knife when electrified. The loop gives the doctor the ability to slice away a very thin layer of the cervix with precision.

Features

• During the procedure, the patient lies upon an examination with her feet in the stirrups and a speculum is used to open the vaginal area. Women are awake during LEEP and given a local anesthetic to prevent pain.

Cauterization

• After the procedure is complete, doctors often apply a special paste to the cervix to prevent bleeding. Alternately, doctors sometimes employ electrocautery, which involves applying electrical current to the incision site to create clotting.

Effects

• The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG) reports that LEEP is a safe procedure with few side effects. Normally, women experience pink vaginal discharge and cramping.

Considerations

• Though it is rare, some women experience bleeding after LEEP and require an additional treatment of the cervical clotting paste. ACOG also cautions that there is a slight risk of premature birth or low birth weight as well as difficulty conceiving in women who undergo the procedure.