LEEP Procedure Specialist

Why do I need a LEEP procedure?

A loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) might be something your doctor recommends if your Pap smear, colposcopy, or biopsy results are abnormal. This minimally invasive in-office procedure effectively removes all abnormal cells, so they don’t turn into something more serious, like cancer. 

Your LEEP procedure could be part of the diagnostic process or the treatment of:                               

• Uterine polyps
• Genital warts (HPV infection)
• Diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure

LEEP is one of the most commonly performed in-office gynecological procedures, so you can feel confident that the treatment is safe and effective. 

What happens during a LEEP procedure?

During a LEEP procedure at Eighth Avenue Obstetrics and Gynecology, you lie back comfortably on the exam table so your doctor can place a speculum into your vagina. This helps your doctor more clearly see your cervix.

Once the speculum is in place, your doctor applies a topical numbing solution, which is usually a spray, although you might receive a small numbing injection, too. After giving the numbing solution a moment to take effect, your doctor inserts a thin tool into your vagina.

At the end of this tool is a wire loop that sends out gentle electrical waves during your procedure. This effect carefully removes abnormal cells and cauterizes vessels to prevent or minimize bleeding. 

In some cases, a LEEP is performed in conjunction with a colposcopy. In this case, before performing your LEEP, your doctor may examine your cervix with the colposcope, which serves as an external microscope — it doesn’t go into your vagina — to carefully view areas of concern. 

Is a LEEP procedure painful?

Most women feel cramping during a LEEP, much like menstrual cramps. But you shouldn’t feel severe pain. The doctors at Eighth Avenue Obstetrics and Gynecology don’t want you to stress about discomfort, so you may be prescribed a mild sedative ahead of time to help you relax.

Plan to stay home and rest the day after your LEEP procedure. Your doctor could recommend taking a pain reliever to help with any lingering discomfort you may have. 

Book your LEEP evaluation at Eighth Avenue Obstetrics and Gynecology directly through the website. You can also call the clinic nearest you to schedule.