LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure) uses a thin electrically heated wire loop to remove abnormal cells from the cervix. It treats precancerous changes (CIN 2 or 3) found by Pap test, HPV test and colposcopy, and the tissue is checked by pathology. It usually takes 10–20 minutes under local anesthesia, and you go home the same day.
- Duration
- 10–20 minutes
- Anesthesia
- Local; sedation on request
- Hospital stay
- Same day
- Back to desk work
- 1–2 days
- Avoid
- Sex, tampons, swimming ~4 weeks
- Cost guide
- ₩100,000–300,000
What is LEEP and why is it done?
Persistent infection with high-risk HPV can cause abnormal cells on the cervix. These changes are graded as CIN 1, 2 or 3 (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia). CIN 1 often clears by itself, but CIN 2 and 3 are more likely to progress over years if untreated.
LEEP removes the area of abnormal cells — the transformation zone — as a thin piece of tissue. This both treats the abnormal cells and provides a sample for diagnosis, confirming the grade and whether the edges are clear.
From abnormal Pap to LEEP: how the pathway works
| Step | What it shows | Typical next step |
|---|---|---|
| Pap test and/or HPV test | Screening — suggests cells may be abnormal | Repeat test or colposcopy, depending on result |
| Colposcopy with biopsy | Magnified view and small samples for diagnosis | Monitoring for low-grade; treatment for high-grade |
| LEEP | Removes and examines the abnormal area | Follow-up testing, often HPV-based, around 6 months |
Not every abnormal Pap result needs LEEP. Many low-grade changes are safely monitored, especially in younger women.
What happens during LEEP at Yoonho?
- Review of results Your Pap, HPV and colposcopy results are explained in English, along with the reasons for treatment and the alternatives.
- Timing The procedure is usually scheduled after your period ends. A pregnancy test may be done.
- Positioning and numbing As for a Pap test, a speculum is placed and local anesthetic is injected into the cervix. You may feel brief pressure or cramping.
- Excision A solution highlights the abnormal area, and the wire loop removes it in a few seconds. Bleeding is controlled with cautery and a paste.
- Rest and aftercare You rest briefly and go home with written aftercare instructions.
- Pathology results Results are usually ready in about a week and explained in English, with a written report if needed.
A patch of abnormal, precancerous cells sits on the cervix around the transformation zone.
The abnormal area is removed with a thin loop and sent for pathology; the cervix heals over several weeks.
Recovery timeline
- Day 0–2 Mild cramping and watery, brownish discharge are expected. Simple pain relief usually helps.
- Weeks 1–3 Discharge or light bleeding can continue. A small increase in bleeding around day 7–14 can occur as the scab separates.
- About 4 weeks Avoid intercourse, tampons, swimming and baths for about 4 weeks, or as advised, while the cervix heals.
- Around 6 months Follow-up testing checks that abnormal cells and high-risk HPV have cleared.
Risks and effects on future pregnancy
LEEP is a common and generally safe procedure. Possible risks include bleeding, infection and, rarely, narrowing of the cervix (stenosis). Because a small part of the cervix is removed, LEEP is associated with a slightly higher risk of preterm birth in later pregnancies, particularly with deeper or repeated excisions. Tell your doctor if you plan a pregnancy so the excision can be kept as small as safely possible.
Abnormal cells can return, which is why follow-up testing matters. The HPV vaccine may still be discussed after treatment.
Cost and insurance for international patients
As a general guide, LEEP costs about ₩100,000–300,000, plus pathology; colposcopy beforehand is about ₩50,000–150,000. A written estimate is given after consultation.
- NHI-enrolled residents may have medically necessary treatment partly covered — see health insurance for foreigners.
- English results, receipts and a diagnosis are available for your home doctor or travel insurance claims.
LEEP is offered by English-speaking gynecologists at Yoonho Women's Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul, as part of our surgical gynecology service.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Does LEEP hurt?
Local anesthetic is used, so most women feel pressure, a brief sting or cramping rather than sharp pain. Sedation can be discussed if you are anxious.
Does LEEP mean I have cancer?
No. LEEP usually treats precancerous changes, aiming to prevent cancer. Pathology confirms the diagnosis and is explained to you.
Can I still get pregnant after LEEP?
Yes. Fertility is usually not affected, but there is a slightly higher risk of preterm birth later, so tell future obstetric providers about your LEEP.
Can I fly after LEEP?
Flying is generally fine a day or two later. Plan how you will receive pathology results and follow-up testing if you are leaving Korea.
Will HPV go away after LEEP?
Many women clear HPV after treatment, but not all. Follow-up HPV-based testing, often around 6 months, checks this.
OB-GYN Specialist · Ph.D. · Medical Director
Former Professor of OB-GYN, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine · Former editorial board member, AAGL · 11th President, Korean Society of Aesthetic Gynecology
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
Talk to an English-speaking gynecologist
Yoonho Hospital · 304 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.