During this treatment procedure a speculum will be inserted into your vagina so that the doctor can look at the vulva, vagina and cervix with the colposcope. A vinegar or iodine solution will be applied to the cervix to help them see the abnormal cells. The doctor will freeze the cervix with a local anaesthetic, similar to the ones used by your dentist. Please let us know if you have any allergies before the treatment begins. You may begin to feel cramps in your lower abdomen.
The doctor will use a small wire loop with a low electrical current to remove the abnormal cells. You may hear a humming noise while this is being done, but you should not have any discomfort during the procedure.
At the end of the treatment, the doctor will apply a thick yellow paste to your cervix to help stop any bleeding. A tampon may also be used to help control any bleeding. The tampon can be removed about four hours after the procedure is complete.
We will ask you to rest for five to ten minutes after the procedure, then you can get dressed and return to light activities.
Recovery Instructions
- Initially there may be no bleeding or discharge until the paste is absorbed or falls off the cervix. If the paste falls off, it will pass through your vagina. The colour may be dark yellow, brown, black and similar to coffee grounds
- You may then have a small amount of bleeding or discharge for 3 - 4 weeks as your cervix heals. The discharge may be pink to dark red, brown or black. This discharge should be no heavier than a normal period. When the bleeding stops, you may have a yellow discharge for up to 10 days
- Use pads - change them frequently to prevent infection and monitor bleeding. -
- Do not use tampons or menstrual cup
- You may have some mild to moderate period-like cramps for 1 - 2 days. Take Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen for any discomfort as directed
- No heavy lifting or exercising for 4 - 5days after your treatment but you can resume your other usual activities
- Shower or bathe as usual. Do not douche until the vaginal discharge stops.
- Do not have sex until the discharge stops - approximately 4 weeks. If you have vaginal bleeding after sex, do not have sex for 7 more days.
- You should have your period at your regular time. Your next 2 periods may be heavier than usual
- Continue to take any birth control pills or medications as usual
Getting help after treatment
If you have any questions or concerns after your treatment is complete, please call the Colposcopy nurse between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at 613-548-6073.
If you experience any of the following symptoms following your treatment, go to the nearest hospital emergency department or urgent care centre.
- Chills or a temperature greater that 38.5C or 101 F
- Vaginal bleeding with clots that are bigger than a dollar coin and soaking through sanitary pads every hour
- Severe abdominal cramping or pain that becomes worse even after taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) as directed
- A severe itch or foul smelling, yellow vaginal discharge
Follow-up appointments
We will ask you to return to the colposcopy clinic for a follow-up so that we may complete another colposcopy exam and Pap smear. Your doctor will tell you when they wish to see you. Please arrange your follow-up appointment before leaving the clinic.
To learn more about the LEEP treatment, click here.
