Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) Near Richmond, VA
Safely eliminate pre-cancerous cervical cells through a LEEP procedure.
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. The procedure involves using a thin wire loop carrying an electric current to carefully remove precancerous cells or abnormal tissue often detected through a pap smear or cervical biopsy.
For women in Richmond, VA, The Center for Advanced Gynecology provides specialized care to make the LEEP procedure as comfortable as possible. By addressing abnormal cervical cells early, this treatment helps manage cervical dysplasia, lowers the risk of cervical cancer, and supports long-term cervical health for women in the Richmond community.
Why is a LEEP Performed?
The LEEP procedure might be recommended for the following reasons:
- Abnormal cells: This procedure can be used to remove atypical cells detected during a pap smear or cervical biopsy.
- Precancerous conditions: A LEEP is carried out to eliminate abnormal tissue or dysplasia, helping to prevent the development of cervical cancer.
- Genital warts: The procedure may be utilized to remove genital warts when necessary.
- Persistent abnormal cells: If abnormal cells remain after two years of monitoring, a LEEP may be advised.
Follow-Up Treatment: In cases where high-grade cytology continues after two years of observation, a LEEP may be recommended to address the persistent changes.
Who Might Need a LEEP in Richmond, VA?
A LEEP may be recommended in Richmond, VA, if:
- Abnormal cells are found on a Pap smear and/or cervical biopsy
- Precancerous changes, such as dysplasia, are detected
- Genital warts are present
What Are the Risks of a LEEP Procedure?
Although a LEEP is considered a safe procedure, there are some potential risks, including infection or bleeding. In certain cases, the cervix may narrow, a condition known as cervical stenosis, which could affect future fertility. There is also a small chance that the procedure may be linked to complications in later pregnancies, such as low birth weight or premature delivery. Your healthcare provider will review all possible risks and benefits in detail beforehand to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable.
What To Expect
Once a negative pregnancy test is confirmed, you will be asked to remove any jewelry and undress from the waist down. You will then lie on the exam table in a supine position with your legs supported in stirrups. A speculum will be inserted into the vagina, and a local anesthetic will be applied. After locating the abnormal cells or tissue, a thin wire loop carrying electrical energy will be used to remove the affected area of the cervix. The procedure is generally brief, performed in-office, and causes minimal discomfort.
Following the procedure, some vaginal bleeding or discharge may occur, which is a normal part of the healing process. Your provider will arrange a follow-up visit to assess your recovery and confirm that all abnormal tissue has been successfully removed.
Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology
The Center for Advanced Gynecology, founded in 2018, is committed to enhancing your health by providing expert care across a range of gynecological services, with a strong emphasis on advanced surgical techniques when surgery is necessary.
Our team offers specialized care for non-surgical management of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and issues affecting the vagina, vulva, and bladder.
Since opening, we have recognized that our community requires more than just specialized services, and we have expanded our practice to include comprehensive routine gynecologic care, cancer screening, Pap smears, menopause management, hormonal imbalance treatment, hormone replacement therapy, menstrual irregularity management, breast care, contraceptive guidance, urinary incontinence treatment, and pelvic organ prolapse care.