Colposcopy, D&C, Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedures
The health care providers at Carolina OB/GYN perform diagnosis and treatment for gynecologic conditions using skill and experience. We are adept at procedures including colposcopy, D&C, and LEEP. Feel confident that when you are treated by the medical professionals and staff at our facility, you receive the most thorough, compassionate, and patient- centered care possible. We invite you to learn more about our approach and to contact us to schedule an appointment.
Colposcopy
This is a simple, routine procedure that provides a closer look at your cervix and vagina in order to diagnose potential diseases. It only takes about five to ten minutes to complete. It may be recommended after a pelvic exam or pap smear reveals abnormalities in the cells or tissue of these areas. A colposcopy is used to:
- Diagnose genital warts
- Explore the cause of cervix inflammation
- Diagnose precancerous changes in the vagina, vulva, and/or cervix
- Follow up after tests are positive for HPV
- Discover the cause for unexplained bleeding or other cervical problems
D&C
D&C is short for dilation and curettage. This procedure involves dilating your cervix using special instruments and then removing uterine tissue using a curette. A D&C may be recommended to diagnose and treat heavy uterine bleeding. It may also be necessary to clear uterine lining after having a miscarriage or abortion. After the tissue is removed, it will be sent to a laboratory for further evaluation to learn if there are any abnormal cells. Although you will want to arrange for a ride to and from this procedure, you should be able to resume normal activities after a day or two.
Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedures (LEEP)
Women who have a Pap smear showing abnormal cells in their cervix may find that their physician will suggest an electrosurgical procedure commonly called LEEP to remove those cells. This minimally invasive procedure uses a thin wire loop through which an electric current is passed to remove a thin layer of tissue containing the abnormal cells. The procedure is performed in a doctor’s office and seldom takes more than a few moments.
After a local anesthesia is administered, the thin wire loop is inserted into the vagina and to the cervix. Electrical current is applied to the loop and the loop acts as a scalpel to remove the abnormal tissue. The tissue is then evaluated to make or confirm a diagnosis. Other procedures can be used to remove the abnormal cells and include:
- Cryosurgery
- Laser treatment
- Cone biopsy
However, the actual procedure used depends upon how much tissue needs to be removed and where the cells are located on the cervix. Recovery time usual takes several weeks. Like all procedures LEEP does have some risks so it is important to understand them before having the procedure.
Schedule an Appointment
It is easy to put off routine checkups, but we encourage you to prioritize your health before you start experiencing symptoms. Scheduling your annual well-woman exam and paying attention to your body will have a positive impact on your overall health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.