LEEP surgery: what should you know?

LEEP uses a thin wire loop carrying electrical current to remove abnormal cervical tissue. It is commonly considered after cervical screening and colposcopy identify cervical dysplasia that needs treatment. The removed tissue is sent for examination, which can show the grade of change and whether the edges of the sample are clear. The procedure is usually performed through the vagina, with local anaesthetic in many settings; the exact approach depends on the size and position of the area and your medical circumstances.

Tell the clinic if you may be pregnant, take blood-thinning medicine, have an allergy, or have unusual bleeding or discharge. Follow instructions about eating, medicines, and transport. Light bleeding, watery discharge, or period-like cramps can occur afterward. Use pads rather than tampons while healing and follow advice about sex, swimming, and strenuous activity. Attend the follow-up appointment so the tissue result and future cervical screening plan are clear. Cone biopsy may be discussed when a different shape or deeper sample is needed.

Contact the clinic for bleeding that is heavy or increasing, foul-smelling discharge, fever, worsening pelvic pain, dizziness, or feeling unwell. Seek emergency help for severe bleeding, fainting, chest pain, or difficulty breathing. If pregnancy is possible after treatment, tell your maternity team about the procedure.

Why is LEEP recommended for my result? What anaesthetic will be used? How much tissue may be removed? When will the laboratory result arrive? When is my next cervical check?