Precise Treatment for Cervical Changes
An in-office procedure to remove abnormal cervical tissue and prevent progression—clear plan, quick recovery.
LEEP removes a thin layer of cervical tissue containing abnormal cells identified after Pap/HPV testing and colposcopy. It is typically performed in the office under local anesthesia and provides both treatment and a specimen for pathology to confirm complete removal.
Fast Facts
Office procedure; usually 10–20 minutes
Local anesthesia; no general anesthesia needed
Treats moderate to high-grade precancerous changes
Pathology confirms diagnosis and margins
When LEEP Is Considered
- Biopsy showing CIN 2–3 (moderate to severe dysplasia)
- Persistent high-grade cytology with correlating findings
- Unsatisfactory colposcopy where treatment is preferred
- Recurrent disease after prior treatment (case-by-case)
Why It Matters
Treating high-grade cervical changes reduces the risk of progression to cancer while preserving the uterus and cervix. LEEP is precise, quick, and provides a tissue sample to ensure that the targeted area was removed.
What to Expect
After consent and a pregnancy test if indicated, a speculum is placed and the cervix is numbed. A thin wire loop removes the abnormal area using gentle electrical energy. You may feel pressure or mild cramping. A hemostatic solution or paste is applied to reduce bleeding. Most people go home shortly after with clear aftercare instructions.
LEEP vs. Watchful Waiting
LEEP Now
- Removes abnormal tissue immediately
- Provides margin status on pathology
- Reduces risk of progression
- Brief recovery; office-based
Surveillance
- Repeat Pap/HPV and colposcopy at set intervals
- Used when risk is low or results are borderline
- Avoids procedure if changes regress
- Requires strict follow-up and can prolong uncertainty
Recovery & Aftercare
Expect light bleeding or brown discharge for up to 2–3 weeks due to the hemostatic paste. Mild cramping is common the first 24–48 hours. Use pads (not tampons), avoid intercourse, pools, and hot tubs until discharge stops or for the period we recommend—often about 3–4 weeks.
Safety & Considerations
Complications are uncommon but may include bleeding, infection, or cervical stenosis. Future pregnancy considerations are discussed; a single, conservative LEEP has a low risk of impacting the cervix, and we tailor excision depth to preserve cervical integrity whenever possible.
Before Your Visit
- ✓Avoid intercourse, douching, and intravaginal products for 24–48 hours
- ✓Take an NSAID 30–60 minutes beforehand unless advised otherwise
- ✓Eat a light meal and hydrate
- ✓Bring recent Pap/HPV and biopsy reports if done elsewhere
- ✓Plan for light activity the day of the procedure
Frequently Asked Questions
1Will it hurt?
Local anesthesia numbs the cervix. You may feel pressure or brief cramping. Most patients describe discomfort as similar to menstrual cramps.
2How long is recovery?
Most people return to routine activities the next day. Expect light spotting or discharge for 1–3 weeks and follow activity restrictions until cleared.
3When will I get results?
Pathology typically returns within about a week. We will discuss the results, margin status, and the follow-up schedule.
4Will I need more treatment?
If margins are clear, surveillance with Pap/HPV at guideline intervals is typical. If margins are involved or abnormalities persist, additional evaluation or treatment may be recommended.
5Does LEEP affect future pregnancy?
A single conservative LEEP has a low risk of cervical impact. If you plan pregnancy, we tailor excision depth and will monitor cervical length in future pregnancies as appropriate.
Treat Now, Protect Tomorrow
If your biopsy showed high-grade changes, LEEP offers precise treatment and peace of mind with a quick recovery.
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