Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) Near Lynchburg, VA

The LEEP procedure removes abnormal cells from the cervix to help prevent cancer.

What is Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure?

A Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) is a widely used and minimally invasive treatment designed to remove abnormal tissue from the cervix. This procedure involves a thin wire loop that is electrically charged to eliminate precancerous cells or irregular tissue, often detected through a pap smear or cervical biopsy.

At The Center For Advanced Gynecology, our experienced team is committed to ensuring a comfortable experience during the LEEP procedure. By targeting and removing abnormal tissue, we help manage cervical dysplasia, lower the risk of cervical cancer, and promote long-term cervical health.

Why is a LEEP Performed?

The LEEP procedure may be recommended for the following reasons:

Abnormal cells: The procedure is often used to remove abnormal cells detected through a pap smear or cervical biopsy.
Precancerous conditions: A LEEP is performed to remove abnormal tissue, known as dysplasia, to prevent it from developing into cervical cancer.
Genital warts: The LEEP procedure can be used to remove genital warts effectively.
Persistent abnormal cells: If abnormal cells continue to appear after two years of observation, a LEEP may be necessary.
Follow-Up Treatment: In cases where high-grade cytology remains after two years of monitoring, a LEEP procedure might be recommended.

Who Might Need a LEEP?

A LEEP might be recommended if:

You have abnormal cells on a pap smear and/or abnormal cervical biopsy results
You have precancerous cells, or dysplasia
You have genital warts

What Are the Risks of a LEEP Procedure?

Though the LEEP procedure is typically safe, there are some risks to be aware of, including infection or bleeding. In rare cases, it may lead to cervical stenosis, which is the narrowing of the cervix, potentially affecting future pregnancies. Additionally, there is a slight chance that a LEEP could contribute to complications like low birth weight or premature labor in subsequent pregnancies. Your healthcare provider will review all potential risks and benefits in detail before the procedure to ensure you are well-informed and at ease in Lynchburg.

What To Expect

After a negative pregnancy test is confirmed, you will remove all jewelry and get undressed from the waist down. You will then be asked to lie in a supine position on the exam table with legs supported by stirrups. A speculum will be placed in the vagina and a local anesthetic will be administered. After identifying the abnormal cells/tissue, a thin wire loop (with electrical energy) will be used to remove it from your cervix. The procedure is typically quick and performed in-office, with minimal discomfort.

After the procedure, you might experience some vaginal bleeding or discharge, which is normal and part of the healing process. Your provider will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your recovery and ensure all abnormal tissue has been removed successfully.

Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology

Founded in 2018, The Center for Advanced Gynecology is committed to enhancing your health by providing expert care across a range of services, with a focus on gynecological treatment and advanced surgical procedures when necessary. Our team specializes in non-surgical treatments for chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, as well as vaginal, vulvar, and bladder pain.

Since our establishment, we’ve recognized the increasing demand from the Lynchburg community for not only specialized care but also routine gynecological services. Our practice has expanded to include cancer screenings, Pap smears, menopausal management, hormone imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, menstrual irregularities, breast care, contraceptive services, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recovery from a LEEP procedure typically takes less than a day, though some vaginal bleeding or discharge may last for up to two weeks. Following your healthcare provider's post-procedure instructions and attending your follow-up appointment are essential for a smooth recovery.

Yes, a LEEP procedure effectively lowers the risk of cervical cancer by removing abnormal cells or tissue before they can develop into cancer.

The LEEP procedure is usually done with local anesthesia, meaning you may feel pressure but generally no significant pain. Mild cramping or discomfort similar to menstrual cramps can occur afterward.

Although a LEEP is generally safe, there is a slight risk of cervical stenosis, which could potentially impact future pregnancies. The risk is lower when less tissue is removed, and your provider will discuss this with you in detail.

Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure that all abnormal cells are removed and to keep track of your cervical health. Your healthcare provider will suggest a follow-up schedule tailored to your situation.