LEEP procedure?

Question

Has anyone has the LEEP procedure done after having an abnormal Pap Smear and Colposcopy? I have to get it done next week and I don't know anyone who has gone through it. If you have gone through it, did you have any fertility problems after? Any info is appreciated.

Answer 1

Hey- I recently had this procedure and was so distraught. The whole concept of cutting off the end of the cervix still unnerves me, but it's important to treat.

I actually found the LEEP to be less traumatic that the Colpo. The worst part is when they numb you. They inject several locations around the cervix- it feels like a little needle prick, but I found this less traumatic than the colpo punches. After the 1st or 2nd, the numbing starts to set in, and the subsequent ones I barley felt. There were maybe 6?

Then they do the tissue removal, that took 2 or 3 swipes with the loop. She accidentally sparked the side of my vaginal wall, that is one of the only risks- but she didn't burn me and it surprised me more than hurt me. Then they cauterize it. But unlike the Colpo, you don't feel any of it. And you're done. It took like 20 minutes.

The numbing is still in affect, so I had less post-procedure pain than with the Colpo, but after that wears off I felt pretty crampy and sore. I was frustrated by the weeks of no exercise and the extended bleeding.

I have had some sensations down there for months afterward that I assume are the tissues healing. I checked with my doc, and she said it was ok as long as it didn't seem like you were developing an infection, if you know what I mean....

I wish I could tell you something about the fertility problems, b/c this was a big fear of mine as well. My doc said it is very rare, only like 1% of people, and in these cases they can still carry a baby the doctors just put a stitch through your cervix to reinforce it during pregnancy. It's more important that we get rid of the abnormal cells and protect ourselves from cancer! The LEEP is both the diagnosis tool and the treatment in one. They will analyze the tissue and make sure there weren't any cells on the edges, indicating some would still be left on your cervix.

Good luck hon- it's not as bad as it seems. :) Treat yourself to a cocktail and dessert afterwards. You're a trooper!

Answer 2

I had hyperplasia. My gyn did cryosurgery to remove the abnormal tissue. I was told years later, by another dr. that my gyn had done an excellent job. So far, so good.

If cryo is done, it feels wierd having your cervix froze. What it is, is the blunt metal tips have liquid nitrogeon pumped through merely to make the ends cold. Liquid nitrogeon doesn't go into the body at all, it's merely to freeze themetal tips used (they are hallow inside)

It was a quick procedure. I did have some small bleeding (mostly spotting) and cramps afterwards, but that's really about it.

Answer 3

I know two people who have had it. Neither one has had fertility problems. Keep positive and make sure to have them check it every six months or so. Cervical issues can get ugly without attention.