Is LEEP procedure really necessary?
“A LEEP is a really important procedure because it prevents cervical cancer,” says gynecologic oncologist Kathleen Schmeler, M.D. The abnormal cells found in the cervix are typically caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), but the LEEP can eliminate the effects of an HPV infection.
What are the risks of LEEP procedure?
What are the risks for a LEEP?
- Infection.
- Bleeding.
- Changes or scarring in the cervix from removal of tissue.
- Trouble getting pregnant.
- Potential for preterm birth or having a low birth weight baby.
How successful are LEEP procedures?
According to a study by the Journal of Minimally Invasive Therapy and Allied Technologies, the LEEP procedure is exceptionally effective, maintaining a 93 to 100 percent success rate.
Does cervix heal after LEEP?
It may be done to confirm a cancer diagnosis or treat precancerous conditions of your cervix. During a LEEP, a thin wire loop is used to excise (cut out) abnormal tissue. Your cervix is then cauterized (burned) to stop any bleeding. The area usually heals in 4 to 6 weeks.
Should I get a second opinion before LEEP procedure?
Your results come back as abnormal and your doctor suggests conducting a LEEP, or a procedure designed to both remove a questionable area in the cervix and provide more cells for testing. Seeking a second opinion before moving forward with a more invasive procedure is always recommended.
Does LEEP cure HPV?
Results: LEEP can effectively eliminate HPV infection. Most patients cleared HPV infection within six months. The persistent HPV infection rates were 44.6%,10.6%, 5.7%, and 2.1% after three, six, nine, and 12 months, respectively.
Does HPV go away after LEEP?
Although LEEP does not completely eradicate HPV infection, our results indicate that most HR-HPV infections are cleared after LEEP with negative margins. The clearance rate is increasing gradually after surgery. Our persistence rate was 40.9 % at 6 months, 20 % at 12 months and 11.8 % at 18 months.