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Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) Near Fredericksburg, VA
Remove pre-cancerous cervical cells safely and effectively with a LEEP procedure designed to protect your long-term health.
What is Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure?
A Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure, commonly referred to as a LEEP, is a widely used, minimally invasive technique aimed at removing abnormal cervical tissue. During this procedure, a thin wire loop carrying a mild electric current is employed to precisely remove precancerous cells or other abnormal tissue, which are typically detected through a Pap smear or confirmed with a cervical biopsy.
For women in Fredericksburg, VA, The Center for Advanced Gynecology offers expert care to ensure the LEEP procedure is performed with maximum comfort and precision. By treating abnormal cervical cells promptly, this approach helps manage cervical dysplasia, reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer, and supports long-term cervical health for women in the surrounding community.
Why is a LEEP Performed?
There are several situations in which a healthcare provider may suggest undergoing a LEEP procedure, including the following reasons:
- Abnormal cells: This procedure is often performed to remove unusual or atypical cells that are identified during a Pap smear or confirmed through a cervical biopsy.
- Precancerous conditions: A LEEP may be conducted to excise abnormal tissue or areas of dysplasia, helping to reduce the risk of progression to cervical cancer.
- Genital warts: The technique can also be used to remove genital warts when clinically indicated.
- Persistent abnormal cells: If abnormal cells continue to be present after approximately two years of monitoring, a LEEP may be advised to address the remaining tissue.
- Follow-Up Treatment: In situations where high-grade cytology persists after two years of observation, a LEEP may be recommended to manage and remove the ongoing cellular changes.
Who Might Need a LEEP in Fredericksburg, VA?
A LEEP procedure may be suggested in Fredericksburg, VA, under the following circumstances:
- If abnormal cells are identified during a Pap smear or confirmed through a cervical biopsy
- When precancerous changes, including dysplasia, are detected in the cervical tissue
- In cases where genital warts are present and require removal
What Are the Risks of a LEEP Procedure?
Although a LEEP is generally regarded as a safe and effective procedure, there are some potential risks to be aware of, including infection or bleeding at the treatment site. In certain situations, the cervix may become narrowed, a condition called cervical stenosis, which could have an impact on future fertility. There is also a small possibility that the procedure could be associated with complications in subsequent pregnancies, such as low birth weight or preterm delivery. Your healthcare provider will carefully review all potential risks and benefits with you ahead of time to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with the procedure.
What To Expect
After confirming a negative pregnancy test, you will be asked to remove any jewelry and undress from the waist down. You will then lie on the examination table in a supine position with your legs comfortably supported in stirrups. A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina, and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the area. Once the abnormal cells or tissue are identified, a thin wire loop carrying a controlled electrical current is used to precisely remove the affected portion of the cervix. The procedure is typically brief, performed in an office setting, and usually causes only minimal discomfort.
After the LEEP, it is common to experience some vaginal bleeding or discharge as part of the normal healing process. Your healthcare provider will schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate your recovery and ensure that all abnormal tissue has been successfully removed.
Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology
Established in 2018, The Center for Advanced Gynecology is dedicated to improving your overall health by offering expert care across a wide spectrum of gynecologic services, with particular emphasis on advanced surgical procedures when surgery is required.
Our team provides specialized care for the non-surgical management of conditions such as chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and other issues affecting the vaginal, vulvar, and bladder areas.
Since our founding, we have understood that the community needs more than specialty-focused services alone. As a result, our practice has expanded to provide comprehensive routine gynecologic care, including cancer screenings, Pap smears, menopause support, treatment for hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, management of menstrual irregularities, breast health care, contraceptive counseling, urinary incontinence treatment, and care for pelvic organ prolapse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recovery after a LEEP procedure is typically swift, with many patients able to return to normal daily activities the same day. Some light vaginal bleeding or discharge can occur for up to two weeks. Following your provider’s aftercare instructions and attending all scheduled follow-up visits is essential to ensure proper healing and a smooth recovery process.
Yes, a LEEP procedure can help reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer by removing abnormal cells or tissue before they have the opportunity to progress into cancerous changes. This preventative benefit makes LEEP an important option for managing cervical health effectively.
LEEP is usually performed under local anesthesia, so most patients experience only mild pressure during the procedure itself. Some cramping or slight discomfort afterward is normal and often feels similar to menstrual cramps.
In general, LEEP is considered safe with regard to future fertility. However, there is a small risk of cervical stenosis, which could potentially affect pregnancies. The amount of tissue removed plays a role, with smaller excisions typically reducing this risk. Your healthcare provider will discuss these considerations in detail and closely monitor your cervical health.
Follow-up visits are important to ensure that all abnormal cells have been completely removed and to maintain long-term cervical health. Your provider will create a personalized schedule for follow-ups based on your individual circumstances and test results.