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Pregnancy After a LEEP Procedure

A LEEP, or Loop Electosurgical Excision Procedure, is a surgical procedure used to treat cervical dysplasia (abnormal cells) by removing affected tissue in the cervix using an electrical charge. A LEEP is typically performed in a physician's office while the patient is under local anesthesia. Most women can get pregnant and have a successful delivery following a LEEP, however, complications can arise following a LEEP that will affect pregnancy.

  1. Effects on Future Pregnancies

    • Following a LEEP, some women experience narrowing or some scarring of the cervix, which can make it more difficult to become pregnant.

      Because a LEEP results in a slightly shorter cervix, there is an increased risk of premature delivery in some women. Some doctors may recommend limited activity or even bed rest during a portion a pregnancy in order to reduce that risk.

    Recovery

    • Following a LEEP, some women experience light bleeding and some discomfort. Most doctors recommend waiting several weeks after a LEEP before inserting a tampon or anything else in the vagina. This includes waiting some time before engaging in vaginal sex. As soon as a woman becomes sexually active after a LEEP, she can resume using her regular method of birth control.

    Considerations

    • In addition to LEEP there are other treatment options for cervical dysplasia, including freezing the abnormal cells with liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy), cone biopsy (or conization) and laser treatment.

      Depending on the severity of the cellular changes, a doctor may recommend a "wait and see" course of action, watching the cervix closely or testing frequently for HPV, a virus that can cause cervical cancer.

    Risks

    • While adopting a "wait and see" attitude may sound reassuring, it is important to remember that a LEEP procedure is usually recommended because a Pap test or biopsy showed cellular abnormalities that can indicate an increased risk of developing cervical cancer.

    Talk to Your Doctor

    • Regardless of whether you are considering becoming pregnant in the future, if your doctor recommends a LEEP, you should ask about the potential risks of the LEEP and what other options, if any, might be good choices for you.

      Most studies have shown the risks to future pregnancies associated with LEEP are relatively low, however, studies show the risks do exist. And, of course, there are some general risks associated with any surgical procedure, including a LEEP.

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