Dear jewelsx77128x,

Cervical dysplasia is abnormal cell growth on the cervix. Most of the time, abnormal cervical cells heal without treatment. But sometimes, abnormal cells can develop into cancer. LEEP is one method that clinicians use to remove abnormal cervical cells, and it is very effective at preventing cervical cancer.

LEEP stands for loop electrosurgical excision procedure. It removes abnormal tissue by cutting it away using a thin wire loop that carries an electrical current. During LEEP, the clinician will look through a colposcope to magnify your cervix.

• You lie down on an exam table in the same position used to have a Pap test.



• A speculum — a metal or plastic instrument — is inserted into your vagina to separate the walls.



• A local anesthetic will be injected into your cervix to numb it.



• A vinegar-like solution is applied to make the abnormal areas more visible.



• The clinician uses an electrical wire loop to remove the abnormal tissue.



• Blood vessels on the area are sealed to prevent bleeding. The clinician may also apply a special paste — Monsel's Solution — to prevent bleeding.

Some women feel mild cramping during the procedure, but most do not feel anything. After LEEP, you may feel mild cramping for a day or so. You probably will have a watery discharge for several weeks. It may be heavy and may be mixed with a little blood. There also may be some odor to the discharge. In addition to normal bathing, wash your labia (lips of the vulva) with plain water for a few days if you need to.

For more information about LEEP, check out Cryotherapy & LEEP — Questions & Answers.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.