LEEP Procedure for Abnormal Cervical Cells
Personalized LEEP care for women who need removal and laboratory evaluation of abnormal or precancerous cells on the cervix.
Treating abnormal cells can help protect future cervical health.
LEEP removes a targeted area of abnormal cervical tissue and allows the tissue to be examined by a laboratory.
How LEEP worksWhat is a LEEP procedure?
LEEP stands for Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure. It is a treatment used to remove abnormal tissue from the cervix.
During a LEEP, a thin wire loop carrying an electrical current is used to remove a targeted layer of cervical tissue. The tissue that is removed is sent to a laboratory for examination.
LEEP is commonly considered when cervical screening, colposcopy, or biopsy shows cervical cell changes that may require treatment. The exact recommendation depends on the individual's screening results, biopsy findings, medical history, age, pregnancy considerations, and future reproductive plans.
Learn about Pap smears →When is LEEP used?
LEEP may be recommended when testing identifies cervical abnormalities that need closer evaluation or treatment.
Precancerous cervical changes
LEEP can be used to remove certain precancerous changes of the cervix, including some higher-grade abnormalities.
Abnormal biopsy results
A cervical biopsy may identify abnormal cells that require treatment rather than observation.
Persistent cervical abnormalities
Some cervical abnormalities may persist over time and require an excisional procedure based on clinical assessment and current guidelines.
Tissue diagnosis
Because LEEP removes tissue, the specimen can be examined by a laboratory to determine the nature and extent of the cervical abnormality.
How HPV relates to abnormal cervical cells
Human papillomavirus, commonly called HPV, is associated with many cervical cell abnormalities. Some HPV infections clear on their own, while persistent infections with higher-risk HPV types can contribute to cervical precancer.
An abnormal Pap or HPV test does not automatically mean that you have cervical cancer. Depending on the results, your healthcare professional may recommend repeat testing, colposcopy, biopsy, observation, or treatment.
When treatment is appropriate, LEEP is one of the excisional procedures used to remove abnormal cervical tissue.
Abnormal Pap smear information →How does LEEP work?
LEEP is commonly performed as an office procedure. Your healthcare professional will explain the steps, anesthesia or pain-management options, and what to expect.
Preparation
You will be positioned similarly to a pelvic examination. A speculum is used so the cervix can be visualized.
Cervical examination
Your clinician examines the cervix and may use a colposcope and a solution to help identify abnormal areas.
Local anesthesia
Local anesthetic may be used to numb the cervix. Pain-management options should be discussed with your healthcare professional.
Tissue removal
A thin wire loop is passed over the cervical tissue to remove the targeted abnormal area.
Laboratory testing
The removed tissue is sent to a laboratory for pathological examination.
Follow-up
Follow-up testing and appointments help monitor cervical health and determine whether additional care is needed.
Is LEEP painful?
Experiences vary. Some women feel pressure, cramping, or a dull ache during the procedure. Local anesthesia can be used to reduce discomfort.
Current ACOG guidance recommends the use of local anesthetic agents for LEEP and emphasizes discussing pain-management options according to the patient's expectations and needs.
What is recovery like after LEEP?
The cervix needs time to heal after the procedure. Your individual recovery instructions will depend on the procedure performed and your medical circumstances.
Vaginal discharge
A watery or pink discharge may occur during healing. A darker discharge may also occur depending on the material used to control bleeding.
Mild cramping
Mild cramping can occur after LEEP and usually improves as the cervix heals.
Temporary restrictions
Your clinician may recommend avoiding tampons, douching, and vaginal intercourse while the cervix heals.
Follow-up testing
Follow-up visits and cervical testing are important after treatment to monitor for persistent or recurrent abnormalities.
LEEP risks and considerations
LEEP is generally well tolerated, but every medical procedure has potential risks.
- ✓ Bleeding during the healing period
- ✓ Infection or other complications
- ✓ Cervical narrowing in rare cases
- ✓ Possible effects on future pregnancy
- ✓ Need for additional treatment or monitoring
Your physician will discuss the risks and benefits of LEEP in the context of your individual diagnosis, reproductive plans, and cervical findings.
Can LEEP affect pregnancy?
Most women who have had LEEP do not experience pregnancy problems because of the procedure. However, ACOG notes that LEEP may be associated with a small increase in the risk of some future pregnancy complications, including preterm birth and low birth weight.
If you are considering LEEP and may want to become pregnant in the future, tell your healthcare professional. Your reproductive plans are an important part of deciding how cervical abnormalities should be managed.
Explore prenatal care →When should you contact your doctor?
Contact your healthcare professional if you experience symptoms that concern you during recovery.
LEEP compared with other cervical treatments
The appropriate treatment depends on your diagnosis, cervical findings, medical history, and current cervical cancer prevention guidelines.
Frequently asked questions
What does LEEP stand for? +
Why would I need a LEEP? +
Does LEEP mean I have cervical cancer? +
Is LEEP performed in an office? +
Will I receive anesthesia for LEEP? +
What happens to the tissue removed during LEEP? +
How long does it take to recover from LEEP? +
Can I become pregnant after LEEP? +
Will I need follow-up after LEEP? +
Can cervical abnormalities come back after LEEP? +
Continue exploring your care options
Have questions about your cervical health?
Talk with our team about abnormal cervical results, LEEP, follow-up care, and your individual treatment options.
Trusted LEEP resources
This educational page is intended to help patients understand LEEP. It does not replace an individualized medical evaluation.