The need for a LEEP procedure may be confirmed from the results of the following diagnostic techniques:-

• Pap smear test- a pap smear test is a simple screening test for determining cancer of the uterine cervix. The test involves collecting cells from the cervix which can be tested in a lab under a microscope for abnormalities
• Colposcopy- uses a colposcope for a magnified view of the vagina and cervix. This is usually done as a result of an abnormal pap smear test or an abnormal appearing cervix.
• Cervical biopsy- a cervical biopsy involves taking tissue samples from the cervix and testing it for the presence of cancerous or pre-cancerous cells.

A LEEP is performed when the patient is not menstruating. The patient will have to lie on her back and place her legs in stirrups for the doctor to be able to examine the cervix. Pain medication may be given through an IV or in the form a pill before the procedure commences. The doctor inserts a speculum in the vagina in order to spread apart the walls of the vagina for the examination of the cervix. A colposcope, an instrument with lens similar to that of a microscope, is used to look for the areas that need to be treated. Local anesthesia is administered through a small needle to numb the cervix. The wired loop (LEEP wire) is then inserted into the cervix and to cut a thin layer of tissue from the cervix.  This may be done once or more depending on the nature of the procedure. The tissue is then studied in a lab to look for abnormalities and confirm the diagnosis.

The procedure is usually safe and without any extreme complications. However, there may be a few side effects and risks in certain cases as mentioned below:-

• Risk of infection in the cervix
• Excessive bleeding as a result of the surgery
• Severe abdominal pain and discomfort
• Vaginal discharge that may be dark brown in color
• Scarring of the cervix as an effect of the surgery
• Difficulty in getting pregnant as a result of narrowing of the opening of the cervix (stenosis)
• There is a possibility of a preterm delivery in women who undergo this procedure.

LEEP is usually an out- patient procedure and can also be performed in a doctor’s office.  It is a short procedure, and usually does not take more than 20- 30 minutes. The patient can go home the same day post the procedure. The patient is advised to not use tampons or have sexual intercourse for a minimum of four to five weeks post procedure. Strenuous activities like lifting are also to be avoided. The patient should check for any problems like bleeding and report it to the doctor.