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Your cervix will be numbed with a local anesthetic and a mild vinegar solution (called acetic acid) will be applied. This solution turns the affected cells white. The doctor will use a colposcope (it looks like binoculars on a stand) placed outside your vagina to look at your cervix microscopically. This will help them decide the size and shape of the loop used to excise the abnormal tissue.
A fine wire loop with a high frequency current (hence the name - loop electrosurgical excision procedure) is used to remove the abnormal tissue from your cervix. The loop will seal blood vessels as it cuts, decreasing bleeding. To further decrease bleeding, a medicated paste or solution may be applied to your cervix. This solution often causes a dark coffee-ground like vaginal discharge for a few days after the procedure. The tissue removed will be sent to a pathologist for diagnosis.
Following the procedure, you may feel a few mild cramps for a few days and you will have a vaginal discharge sometimes for up to 4 weeks. You should not put anything in your vagina (including tampons or sexual intercourse) for three to four weeks after your procedure. You should also avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise for three to four weeks.
Your doctor will want to monitor your Pap test for at least two years following your LEEP. To catch any problems early, it is very important that you see your doctor as directed.
| You must call your doctor if you: |
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- Suffer from heavy bleeding or bleeding with clots (a "coffee ground" discharge is normal)
- Experience severe abdominal pain
- Have a fever
- Have a severely foul-smelling discharge
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