LEEP Procedure

What Is the LEEP Procedure?
LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) is a modern, minimally invasive treatment used to remove abnormal or precancerous tissue from the cervix.
It is performed using a thin, electrically charged wire loop that precisely excises the affected area, allowing both treatment and diagnostic confirmation.
LEEP is recommended for women diagnosed with CIN 2 or CIN 3 lesions, or when a biopsy confirms high-grade changes due to HPV infection.
At Saga Clinic in Tirana, LEEP is performed by Dr. Eser Agar following international safety and quality standards, ensuring accuracy, comfort, and preservation of cervical function.
Why Is It Important?
The LEEP procedure is essential for preventing the progression of precancerous cervical lesions to invasive cancer.
It serves a dual purpose: removing abnormal tissue and confirming the diagnosis through histopathological examination.
Key advantages:
- High precision and minimal damage to healthy tissue
- Quick procedure (10–15 minutes)
- Excellent healing and preservation of fertility
- Can be performed under sedation anesthesia
- Outpatient, same-day recovery
When Is LEEP Recommended?
- When CIN 2 or CIN 3 is confirmed by biopsy
- After persistent CIN 1 that does not regress with follow-up
- When Pap smear, HPV test, and colposcopy all indicate high-grade abnormality
- For unsatisfactory colposcopy (when the transformation zone is not fully visible)
- In selected cases of adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS)
How Is the Procedure Performed?
- The patient lies in a gynecological position.
- We prefer sedation anesthesia for patient’s comfort.
- A fine electrical loop is used to remove the abnormal area under colposcopic guidance.
- The excised tissue is sent for pathological examination.
- The cervix is cauterized to prevent bleeding.
- The entire procedure takes 10–20 minutes, and patients can return home the same day.
Discomfort is minimal, similar to mild menstrual cramps. No stitches are required.
What to Expect After the Procedure
- Mild cramping or brown discharge for a few days is normal.
- Avoid intercourse, tampon use, and swimming for about 2 weeks.
- Light physical activity is safe; avoid intense exercise for 3–5 days.
- Results are available in 5–7 days and determine further management.
Understanding the Results
The pathology report after LEEP provides:
- Confirmation of the CIN grade (1, 2, or 3)
- Assessment of whether the lesion was completely removed (clear margins)
- Evaluation for possible microinvasion
If margins are clear and no invasive disease is present, the patient continues with regular follow-up (Pap + HPV testing at 6 and 12 months).
Risks and Safety
The LEEP procedure is considered very safe.
Possible but uncommon risks include:
- Mild bleeding or infection
- Cervical stenosis (rare)
- Preterm birth risk in future pregnancies (very low)
With experienced hands and modern technology, these risks are minimized.
At Saga Clinic, all procedures are conducted under strict sterile and safety protocols.
Fertility and Pregnancy After LEEP
LEEP is a fertility-preserving procedure.
Most women can conceive and carry pregnancies normally after healing.
In some cases, cervical length is monitored in pregnancy to ensure adequate support.
Dr. Eser Agar provides pre- and post-procedure counseling for women planning future pregnancies.
The Saga Clinic Approach
At Saga Clinic, the LEEP procedure is part of a comprehensive cervical health program integrating:
- Colposcopy and biopsy confirmation
- Precise excision with minimal tissue loss
- Histopathological evaluation
- HPV vaccination and follow-up
Each patient receives individualized care based on her age, fertility goals, and HPV status.
Advantages for Patients
- Outpatient and painless treatment
- Quick recovery and minimal bleeding
- No hospitalization required
- High success rate in removing abnormal cells
- Ongoing follow-up to ensure complete healing
Appointments and Contact
To schedule your LEEP procedure or consultation, contact Saga Clinic Tirana via online booking or WhatsApp.
Dr. Eser Agar and his team will evaluate your test results, discuss all options, and ensure the safest and most effective treatment plan for your cervical health.
For appointment requests or medical inquiries, please contact us using the options below.
📞 Clinic Phone (Office Hours)
+355 69 836 1565
Available Monday–Saturday, 09:00–16:00.
💬 WhatsApp (Outside Office Hours)
+355 69 456 4467
Available outside office hours via WhatsApp Message only.
Author: Asst. Prof. Eser Ağar, MD — Obstetrician and Gynecologist
This page is for informational purposes and does not replace examination and physician evaluation.
Medically reviewed: Asst. Prof. Eser Ağar, MD —