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.
Tags: women experience