If you’ve received an abnormal Pap smear result, you’re not alone. In the U.S. alone, approximately three million women get abnormal results every year, which can be scary. But it’s important to know that an abnormal result doesn’t always mean you have cancer.
Oftentimes, doctors will recommend a colposcopy or a LEEP procedure to investigate abnormal cervical screenings. While a colposcopy is used for diagnosis, a LEEP is a treatment.
This article will help you understand the difference between a colposcopy and LEEP, and when each procedure is used.
What is a Colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to get a closer look at your vulva, vagina, and cervix to see if there are any abnormal areas. You might have a colposcopy if your Pap smear came back with unusual results, or if you’re concerned about HPV.
The main goal of a colposcopy is to help catch cancer early, when it’s easier to treat.
During a colposcopy, your doctor will use a special magnifying instrument called a colposcope to get a better view of your cervix.
Here’s what typically happens during the procedure:
- You’ll lie on an exam table in your doctor’s office, similar to a Pap smear.
- Your doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina to visualize the cervix.
- They’ll then apply a solution of acetic acid (vinegar) or iodine to your cervix to make any abnormal cells easier to see.
- If they spot any suspicious areas, they may take a small tissue sample (biopsy) for further testing. This biopsy will confirm whether abnormal cells are present.
What is a LEEP procedure?
A LEEP, or loop electrosurgical excision procedure, is a treatment used to remove abnormal or precancerous cells from your cervix. It’s often done after a colposcopy and biopsy have confirmed that those cells are present.
LEEP procedures are used to keep abnormal cells from developing into cervical cancer.
Here’s what you can expect during a LEEP:
- The procedure is usually done in your doctor’s office with a local anesthetic.
- Your doctor will use a thin, heated wire loop to remove the abnormal tissue.
- The procedure itself takes only about 10 to 20 minutes.
- The tissue that’s removed will be sent to a lab to be analyzed.
Colposcopy vs. LEEP: What’s the difference?
Although both colposcopy and LEEP procedures involve the cervix, they serve different purposes and involve different techniques.
Purpose and application
A colposcopy is used as a diagnostic tool, while a LEEP is therapeutic. In other words, a colposcopy is performed to find something, and a LEEP is performed to fix it.
Most of the time, a colposcopy is performed before a LEEP. If a colposcopy and biopsy reveal abnormal cells, a LEEP procedure is often the next step.
Invasiveness and recovery
A colposcopy is less invasive than a LEEP procedure. The instruments don’t actually enter the body, so a colposcopy is considered noninvasive.
Recovering from a colposcopy is usually faster and easier than recovering from a LEEP. Because a LEEP involves the removal of tissue, it typically requires a bit more recovery time.
Tools and techniques
During a colposcopy, the doctor uses a colposcope to magnify the cervix. They also use acetic acid and iodine to better visualize any abnormal areas.
During a LEEP, a heated wire loop is used to cut away the abnormal tissue.
Why are cervical screenings important?
Regular Pap smears and HPV tests are the best way to catch problems with your cervix early.
When doctors find and treat abnormal cells early, they can usually prevent cervical cancer from ever developing.
Women’s health clinics offer screening services and can help you learn more about cervical health. Getting regular screenings is an important part of staying healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a LEEP procedure a biopsy?
While a LEEP procedure removes tissue, it’s primarily a treatment, not just a biopsy. The tissue removed during a LEEP is sent to a lab for analysis, which helps confirm the diagnosis and ensure all abnormal cells were removed. Therefore, it serves a diagnostic purpose similar to a biopsy, but its main intent is therapeutic.
Why do I need a colposcopy after LEEP?
Follow-up colposcopies are crucial after a LEEP to monitor for any remaining or recurring abnormal cells. HPV can persist, and abnormal cells can return. Regular check-ups ensure that the treatment was successful and that no further intervention is needed. Your doctor will advise on the appropriate follow-up schedule.
Does LEEP get rid of HPV?
LEEP treats the abnormal cervical cells caused by HPV, but it doesn’t eliminate the HPV infection itself. Your body’s immune system typically clears the HPV virus over time. However, ongoing monitoring is necessary because HPV can persist and potentially cause future cervical abnormalities.
What is the difference between a colposcopy and a cervical smear?
A cervical smear, also known as a Pap smear, is a screening test to collect cells from the cervix for examination under a microscope, looking for abnormalities. A colposcopy is a more in-depth procedure where the cervix is examined with a magnified instrument (colposcope) to identify abnormal areas, and biopsies can be taken for further analysis if needed. Colposcopies are usually performed if a Pap smear shows abnormal results.
Putting It All Together
Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure, while LEEP can both diagnose and treat abnormal cervical cells. Both play important roles in managing cervical health.
Regular screenings and follow-up care are crucial for maintaining cervical health. Talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about these procedures or your cervical health in general.