The majority of women will have no less than one abnormal Pap smear outcome in their lives, with 5% of all Pap tests returning as ‘abnormal.’ The odd result is usually nothing to be concerned about. However, it is still vital to follow up and rule out any potential concerns. Sometimes, a loop electrosurgical excision technique (LEEP) may be needed to remove the abnormally developing cells in the cervix. Check out this post to learn more about LEEP in Atlanta, understand how to prepare, and what to expect during your procedure.
What Exactly Is LEEP?
With such an extensive and intricate term, it seems like the loop electrosurgical excision process (LEEP) might be a challenging operation. However, it is actually quite fast and straightforward. LEEP eradicates aberrant tissue from your lower genital system, including your vagina and cervical area.
This abnormally-developing tissue could be genital warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a relatively prevalent sexually transmitted infection. What’s more, this excision procedure can be applied to remove malignant or benign tissues from your cervix.
What Should You Do To Get Ready?
Before commencing any procedure or treatment, your OB/GYN expert will take ample time to explain the treatment to you. You can raise any concerns you have during this time, and your provider will gladly provide you with the necessary information.
Additionally, you should provide your specialist with a thorough, updated list of all over-the-counter and prescription medications you are taking, as well as any allergies or health issues you may have.
The procedure should not be arranged during your menses. Furthermore, for the first 24 hours before your surgery, avoid using tampons, douches, vaginal creams, or intercourse.
What Happens Throughout An LEEP?
Throughout the process, your specialist at Ideal Gynecology, LLC will request you to down on an exam table, similar to a routine pelvic exam. After that, they drive a speculum inside your vagina to visualize your uterus.
Once a numbing cream is applied to reduce discomfort, your OB/GYN provider utilizes small, portable equipment that generates electrical current to eliminate aberrant cells. If necessary, he can send the obtained tissue to a laboratory to be tested for malignancy. The complete procedure takes roughly 10 minutes on average.
Thanks to the numbing ointment, you will feel no pain throughout the treatment. However, you may experience mild soreness later. It is advised to bring a sanitary pad to your visit because you might get vaginal cramps and some light bleeding. To make your recovery experience procedure even more comfortable, you can request your provider for safe, effective pain medicines.
For several days or even weeks following LEEP, your doctor will give explicit recommendations on what activities to avoid, such as intense exercise, intercourse, or douching. You must follow these recommendations to ensure a quick, smooth recovery.
Whether you have unusual growths in your cervix or want help with an abnormal pap smear, the OB/GYN experts at Ideal Gynecology, LLC can help. Although not many individuals are familiar with the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), it is a pretty common procedure for eliminating apparent cells in the genital region. Schedule a consultation through mobile or book online to determine if this procedure is right for you.
