Treatments for Cervical Changes - LLETZ/LEEP
The treatment you are most likely to receive for cervical changes detected during your smear test is known as LLETZ (large loop excision of the transformation zone), otherwise known as LEEP (loop electro-surgical excision procedure).
LLETZ can be used as both a diagnostic tool to detect cervical changes and as a treatment. It may be performed during your first colposcopy appointment, usually under local anaesthetic and taking around 10 minutes to complete. It is usually a pain-free procedure although occasionally women report some menstrual-like cramping or a slight burning feeling. If this is something that causes you concern you can ask your doctor for a painkiller to take beforehand and you will probably be given either paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Using the colposcope the doctor can see the abnormal part of your cervix and cut out the abnormal tissue with a thin wire loop. The loop is heated electrically so it cuts through the affected tissue and seals it at the same time. You will have a small electrode placed on your thigh prior to treatment to ensure the electrical current won't cause you any harm.
Once all the abnormal tissue is safely removed it will be sent to the lab for analysis to make sure all the abnormal area has been completely removed. If it has, then further treatment will not be necessary. If, on the other hand, there are still cell changes visible on the edge of the tissue then you may be advised to return for further treatment.
Related Smear Test Articles
Treatments for Cervical Changes
Cervical Cancer and Human Papilloma Virus
Resources
For further information about HPV visit NHS Cancer Screening Programme.
Further information about Colposcopy and invasive illness is available from the British Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology.
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