How long does leep procedure take

In addition, it is also associated with a lower cost and fewer side effects. Your healthcare provider may recommend a LEEP if there is any abnormality detected in your lower genital tract.

Either this abnormality could be detected during a routine Pap smear or it could be a finding from a cervical biopsy. In cases where there is a suspected abnormality, LEEP is used a diagnostic tool to obtain tissue samples from the cervix or vagina. These samples are then sent for biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer. In some cases, LEEP may reveal the presence of precancerous cells cells abnormal but not cancerous , which could be an early indicator of cancer development.

In cases where there is confirmation of abnormal tissue growth, LEEP can be used to treat the condition by removing the abnormal tissue cells and allowing healthy cells to grow back in their place. At your LEEP appointment, you will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie on the exam table the way you would for a pelvic exam.

Your healthcare provider will use speculum to open up your vagina and expose your cervix. He may then use a colposcope an instrument like a microscope and place it at the opening of your vagina to better visualize the internal tissues. The vagina and cervix may be doused using either an iodine or a vinegar solution as these cause the abnormal cells to change color and these are then easier to identify. Both surgeries might be done with the same surgical instrument, but LEEP and cone biopsy involve removing tissue from different areas of the cervix.

A small electrical wire loop is used to remove abnormal cells from your cervix. LEEP surgery may be performed after abnormal cells are found during a Pap test, colposcopy, or biopsy. After a LEEP, you can expect mild cramping, dark vaginal discharge, and possible mild bleeding with discharge.

Women who undergo a LEEP are recommended to use sanitary napkins as opposed to tampons following the procedure. LEEP is safe and effective. Still, there are some risks. These include: infection. Your cervix is then cauterized burned to stop any bleeding. The area usually heals in 4 to 6 weeks. The procedure will take about 10 minutes. Before you leave, your nurse will explain how to care for yourself at home. Here are some guidelines to follow:.

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