The LEEP is a procedure used to treat abnormal cell growth in the cervix (cervical dysplasia). A fine wire loop is used to remove a small amount of tissue from your cervix.

This can be done in the healthcare provider’s office. You can go back to your routine the same day.

During the procedure

You’ll place your feet in stirrups. Your healthcare provider then inserts a speculum into your vagina. The speculum holds the walls of the vagina open to let the healthcare provider see the cervix:

• Your cervix is numbed with a local anesthetic.
• A mild vinegar or iodine solution may be applied to your cervix. This helps to highlight any dysplasia.
• Your healthcare provider may look through a colposcope. This helps to get a close-up view of your cervix.
• The loop is inserted through your vagina and moved toward the cervix.
• The loop is used to remove a small piece of cervical tissue.
• A medicated solution may be applied to the cervix. This helps reduce bleeding.

After the procedure

You may have a watery pink discharge and mild cramping following the procedure. Also, the solution used to decrease bleeding may cause dark vaginal discharge for a few days. Don’t place anything in your vagina or have sex until your healthcare provider tells you it’s OK. Your cervix should heal completely within a few weeks.