LEEP is an abbreviation for the medical term loop electrosurgical excision procedure, according to Ohio's Cleveland Clinic. LEEP is a surgical procedure that is used to detect and treat abnormal cervical cell growth. LEEP is performed following an abnormal Pap smear and/or colposcopy biopsy to confirm the presence of abnormal cell changes in the cervix. During the LEEP procedure, abnormal cells are removed and examined under a microscope to check for the presence of cancer. Complications can occur after a LEEP procedure, so it is important to know the risks.
Heavy Vaginal Bleeding
A common complication associated with the LEEP procedure is heavy vaginal bleeding, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Immediately following the procedure, most women experience some vaginal bleeding and mild cramps. The bleeding is usually pinkish or brownish-blackish in color and less in amount then a heavy menstrual period, according to The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. In rare cases, some women may experience heavy vaginal bleeding during the first three weeks following the procedure. Women who experience heavy bleeding accompanied by blood clots, foul smelling vaginal discharge, high fever and/or severe abdominal cramps should seek emergency medical care.
Cervical Stenosis
A rare complication associated with the LEEP procedure is cervical stenosis or narrowing of the cervix, according to The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Cervical stenosis occurs when the passageway through the cervix is partially or completely blocked. Women who have the LEEP procedure are at risk of developing this condition if blood and pus accumulate in the uterus following the procedure, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Symptoms of cervical stenosis may include absent periods, painful periods and/or abnormal bleeding. In severe cases, cervical stenosis can lead to endometriosis, menstruation problems and/or infertility.
Pregnancy Problems
LEEP has been associated with an increased risk of future pregnancy problems, according to The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Most women do not experience pregnancy difficulties following the LEEP procedure, but there is a small chance of having a premature or low birth weight baby. In rare cases, the LEEP procedure can cause cervical incompetence, according to the Health Science Report. Cervical incompetence is the inability of the cervix to remain closed during pregnancy. Women who have cervical incompetence may experience miscarriage and pre-term labor.
