What to Expect After a LEEP Procedure

The actual procedure is done under local anesthetic in the doctor’s office and takes about 30 minutes. Afterwards, the tissue that was removed during the procedure is sent to a pathologist for classification and examination to make sure that all the abnormal cells have been removed. Most patients can usually leave their doctor’s office not long after the LEEP procedure and are able to drive themselves home or go back to work. After the LEEP procedure it is common to feel some mild discomfort and vaginal spotting.

Spotting

Vaginal spotting is common for one to three weeks following the procedure. At the end of the LEEP procedure, a medicated paste is applied to the area to prevent bleeding. This will produce a yellow-green discharge immediately following the procedure. There may also be some odor to the discharge. The vaginal discharge is normal and is part of the healing process of the cervix. The discharge will stop when the healing process is complete. However, if it is very foul-smelling, contact your doctor as it could be a sign of infection. In addition to your normal bathing, wash the labia (lips) with plain water several times a day to reduce the risk of infection.

Discomfort

Some women experience some mild cramping after the LEEP procedure. This can be relieved by taking non-aspirin, over-the-counter pain relief such as ibruprofen.

No excessive activity

Excessive activity should be avoided the first 48 hours and exercise should be avoided for at least one week to lessen the chance of heavy bleeding. Heavy lifting (over 15 lbs) should also be avoided.

No xexual intercourse or tampons

Sexual intercourse and tampons should be avoided for three to four weeks following the LEEP procedure. This allows the cervix to heal and reduces the risk of infection.

Regular PAP Tests

Once you have had the LEEP procedure done, you need to have regular PAP tests every 4-6 months or as recommended by your doctor. After several PAP tests have come back normal, your doctor will decide how often you need to have further PAP tests. There is a risk of roughly 10 percent that the LEEP procedure might not cure the problem. If the condition is left untreated it might progress to cancer, so it is important to keep the scheduled appointments.

When To Call the Doctor

The LEEP procedure is a safe way to remove abnormal cells, but some women can experience complications after the procedure. If you have any of the following symptoms, you should call your doctor.

• Bleeding that is heavier than the menstrual period
• Foul smelling yellowish discharge could be an infection
• Increasing pelvic pain
• Fever or chills
• Abdominal pain

Sources

Estronaut: LEEP - https://www.estronaut.com/a/leep_info.htm

ACOG: LEEP Procedure - https://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp110.cfm

Cleveland Clinic: LEEP Procedure - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/loop_electrosurgical_exision/hic_loop_electrosurgical_excision_procedure.aspx

Planned Parenthood: LEEP Procedure - https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/womens-health/leep-22127.htm

Doctors of USC: LEEP - https://www.doctorsofusc.com/condition/document/489146