LEEP

LEEP at John Labban, M.D., PC

At John Labban, M.D., PC, we provide compassionate and comprehensive care for women's health. Our experienced team is dedicated to making your LEEP procedure as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We'll answer all your questions, address your concerns, and provide you with the support you need throughout the process.

What is LEEP?

LEEP stands for Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure. It's a safe and effective way to remove abnormal cells from your cervix. This procedure is often recommended when a colposcopy or biopsy shows precancerous changes in your cervical tissue. By removing these abnormal cells, LEEP can help prevent cervical cancer.

Why Would I Need LEEP?

Your doctor may suggest LEEP if:

Your Pap test results are abnormal.

A colposcopy biopsy confirms the presence of precancerous cells. 

When  colposcopy is inadequate and the area to  be checked could not be visualized

What Happens During the Procedure?

LEEP is usually performed in your doctor's office and takes about 20-30 minutes. Here's what you can expect:

Positioning: You'll lie on an exam table, similar to a pelvic exam, with your feet in stirrups like when you are having a pap done.

Visualization: A speculum is inserted into your vagina to allow your doctor to see your cervix.

Numbing: A local anesthetic is applied to your cervix to minimize discomfort. This can be painful. 

Tissue Removal: A thin, wire loop heated by an electrical current is used to gently remove the abnormal tissue. This is painful.

Stopping Bleeding: A solution may be applied to the area to stop any bleeding, if needed.

Will It Hurt?

You will feel cramping or pain during the procedure, but it is generally well-tolerated. It will be good to have someone be with you for support and drive you back home. You can take Ibuprofen one hour before the procedure. 

What Happens After LEEP?

After the procedure, you may experience some cramping, spotting, or a dark-colored discharge for a few weeks. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for yourself during your recovery. It's important to avoid tampons, hot tub, swimming, and sexual intercourse for 4 weeks to allow the area to heal properly.

Follow-Up Care

Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments  in 4 weeks to monitor your healing and in 4 months to ensure the abnormal cells have been completely removed by doing a pap smear. Regular Pap tests will also be important to continue monitoring your cervical health.