Cervical health screenings often involve confusing terminology. Terms like “colposcopy” and “LEEP” are frequently encountered, sometimes leading to the mistaken belief that they refer to the same medical intervention. This article clarifies the distinct purposes and methodologies of these two procedures, providing a clear understanding of their roles in managing cervical health.
Understanding Colposcopy
A colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure for detailed examination of the cervix, vagina, and vulva. It identifies abnormal changes or signs of disease not visible to the naked eye. This examination follows an abnormal Pap test result, which suggests atypical cells.
During the procedure, a healthcare provider uses a colposcope, a specialized magnifying instrument, to magnify the cervical surface. Solutions like acetic acid are applied to the cervix to highlight abnormal cells, to make them appear white. This allows the clinician to pinpoint areas of concern, and if necessary, take small tissue samples, known as biopsies, for laboratory analysis.
Understanding LEEP
The Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure, or LEEP, is a therapeutic procedure to remove abnormal or precancerous cells from the cervix. Unlike a colposcopy, LEEP is a treatment, not solely a diagnostic tool. It is performed after a colposcopy and biopsy confirm high-grade cervical changes that require removal.
During a LEEP, a thin wire loop, heated by an electrical current, excises a cone-shaped section of cervical tissue. The removed tissue contains abnormal cells identified previously. The electrical current also helps seal blood vessels, minimizing bleeding during the process.
Distinguishing the Procedures
The main difference between a colposcopy and LEEP is their primary objective. A colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure, focusing on visual assessment and tissue sample collection to identify abnormalities. It investigates the nature and extent of cervical cellular changes.
Conversely, LEEP is a therapeutic procedure, designed to remove identified abnormal or precancerous tissue. It moves beyond diagnosis to active treatment, eliminating problematic cells before they progress.
When Each Procedure is Recommended
A colposcopy is recommended when initial screening tests, like a Pap test, yield abnormal or inconclusive results. This includes positive high-risk HPV tests or a suspicious cervix during a routine pelvic examination. It helps determine the severity and location of cellular changes.
LEEP is recommended when colposcopy and biopsy confirm high-grade precancerous changes (CIN 2 or CIN 3). These findings indicate a higher risk of progression to cervical cancer if untreated. LEEP removes these at-risk cells, reducing the likelihood of cancer development.