What Is a LEEP Procedure?

LEEP stands for Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure. It is also called LLETZ in some countries.

The procedure removes a small section of abnormal cervical tissue. The collected tissue is sent to a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis and determine whether the abnormal cells were completely removed.

When Is LEEP Recommended?

A gynecologist may recommend LEEP for:

• High-grade cervical dysplasia, including CIN 2 or CIN 3
• HSIL results confirmed through colposcopy or biopsy
• Persistent abnormal cervical cells
• Certain glandular cell abnormalities
• Abnormal tissue requiring further pathological examination

Not every abnormal Pap smear or positive HPV test requires LEEP. Low-grade changes may only need monitoring or repeat testing. Treatment depends on your age, biopsy results, medical history, and pregnancy plans. The National Cancer Institute explains how abnormal HPV and Pap results guide follow-up and treatment.

What Happens During LEEP?

LEEP is usually performed as an outpatient procedure:

1. A speculum is placed inside the vagina.
2. Local anesthetic is injected to numb the cervix.
3. A thin heated wire loop removes the abnormal tissue.
4. Medication or cautery may be used to control bleeding.
5. The tissue is sent for pathology testing.

The treatment itself often takes approximately 15 minutes, although the complete appointment may be longer. Most patients return home the same day. The NHS describes LLETZ—the equivalent procedure—as an outpatient treatment commonly performed with local anesthesia.

Preparing for Your Procedure

Tell your Busan gynecologist if you:

• Could be pregnant
• Take anticoagulants or other blood-thinning medication
• Have medication or anesthetic allergies
• Have an IUD
• Previously underwent LEEP or cervical surgery
• Hope to become pregnant in the future

Bring your Pap smear, HPV test, colposcopy, and biopsy reports if they were completed outside Korea.

Recovery After LEEP

Mild cramping, watery or brown discharge, spotting, and light bleeding can occur during recovery. Bleeding may continue for several weeks.

Your doctor may advise you temporarily to:

• Use sanitary pads instead of tampons or menstrual cups
• Avoid penetrative intercourse
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting
• Avoid swimming, baths, and vaginal products

Follow the specific recovery period provided by your clinic, which is commonly around four weeks.

Risks and Future Pregnancy

Possible complications include bleeding, infection, cervical narrowing, or incomplete removal of abnormal cells. Follow-up testing is essential because cervical abnormalities can return.

Most women can become pregnant after LEEP. However, deeper or repeated cervical excisions may slightly increase the risk of pregnancy complications, including premature birth. Discuss future pregnancy plans before treatment so the doctor can select the most appropriate approach.

When to Seek Medical Care

Contact your clinic promptly if you experience:

• Bleeding heavier than a heavy menstrual period
• Fever or chills
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Severe or worsening pelvic pain
• Dizziness, weakness, or fainting

LEEP for International Patients in Busan

International patients can arrange cervical evaluation and LEEP treatment near areas such as Seomyeon, Haeundae, Centum City, Gwangalli, and Nampo. When booking, ask whether the clinic offers English-speaking consultations, pathology-report translation, transparent pricing, and coordinated follow-up care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LEEP painful?
Local anesthetic numbs the cervix. You may feel pressure, mild cramping, or brief discomfort.

Does LEEP treat HPV?
LEEP removes abnormal cells caused by HPV, but it does not directly eliminate the HPV infection.

Can I have LEEP during pregnancy?
Treatment is generally delayed during pregnancy unless there is a specific medical concern. A specialist should determine the safest timing.

Will I need another Pap or HPV test?
Yes. Follow-up cervical screening is necessary, with timing based on the pathology results and your doctor’s protocol.

Can abnormal cells return after LEEP?
Yes. LEEP is effective, but recurrence is possible, particularly when high-risk HPV persists.

Book a LEEP Consultation in Busan

If you have received abnormal cervical screening or biopsy results, arrange a gynecology consultation in Busan. A specialist can review your records, confirm whether LEEP is necessary, explain the pathology process, and create an appropriate follow-up plan.