It’s been almost four months since my LEEP procedure to remove abnormal cells from my cervix. I haven’t written about my recovery since about a week afterward, when I got the results that the margins were clear and the cells were not cancerous, but I’ve thought about this area of my body every single day for the last four months.
I’ve thought about it daily because I’ve felt it daily. It’s not pain but definite discomfort through my groin and pubic bone area that comes and goes with no apparent triggers. I talked to my doctor about it the week after surgery and he had no clue but told me to come in if it got worse. It didn’t get worse but has stayed persistent.
On Valentines Day I went in for my three month follow up (delayed a few weeks because of my trip to Portland). The doc again said that he saw no reason that I should have this irritation and that everything looked good to him.
The doctor-patient relationship is a hard one! On one hand I like that he is really positive and acts like none of this is a big deal at all. On the other hand I detest that he acts like none of this is a big deal!
I experienced a lot of anxiety leading up to that appointment. I suppose I feel a little better knowing that the daily discomfort isn’t a symptom of anything scary but at the same time it’s a constant reminder that my organs aren’t perfect and I had my reproductive parts scraped with an electric wire.
At this point the best thing for me is to be grounded and satisfied with my choice to have the LEEP but it was a really hard decision. It is not my place to give medical advice to anyone else but I hope that by sharing my experience I can help encourage women in a similar situation to do their homework before making a decision. The LEEP, for me, was a very painful procedure that took over a month to recover from the most noticeable side effects and I am still waiting for this nagging discomfort to dissipate, not to mention that my cervix will, literally, be forever scarred.
If you’ve had a LEEP, cone, or cryotherepy I would really appreciate hearing about your experience!
I wish I lived closer. $5.00 pilates classes are non-existent in the Boston area. Looks fun!
I had cryotherapy when I was in my 20’s. I had no recovery issues and haven’t had an abnormal pap or any issues since then (at least that I remember since it has been awhile!) It was scary at the time. Sorry you are still feeling discomfort.
I had mine done a week ago and i have mild pain and bloating. Idk if this is normal a week later
I read your blog and missed the one on tje procedure. What a scary procedure. Ive had severe cramps since my teenage years and always struggled with my drs. not fully believing my pain whenever I get them.. I hope your dr. follows up on the comstant not normal pain you feel.
Thanks for the shout out Faith. Loved the class and so glad we have gracefulfitness as an option here in Cville!
I really appreciate you blogging about this. I had a LEEP procedure almost a year ago, I felt fairly confident about the procedure before I went in ( I have a fairly high pain threshold) and was assured by my Doctor that they are performed all the time and I would be fine to work the next day. I did read up on the procedure on a few message boards ahead of time, and noticed that women had fairly wide ranging experiences some described it as painful but many said it had been no big deal. My experience was somewhat traumatizing, I wasn’t really prepared for how painful and uncomfortable it was for me, luckily I had did it on a Friday morning and had the next few days off. My body had a really bad reaction, my leg were shaking uncontrollably through the entire procedure almost to the point my doctor need to get assistance, near the end of the procedure some of the topical pain medication had worn down and I felt more of the full force of what was happening. I was a mess, crying and barley able to walk, very lucky to have my partner there to pick me up and support me when I got home.
I’m not sure if other people have had the experience of having some major emotional impact from this procedure but I definitely did. It took me a month at least to heal from the procedure physically but to also feel grounded again emotionally. Now a year later, there are no signs of returned abnormal cells and I am back to annual pap-smears. As far as residual pain or discomfort after the procedure that you are describing, I didn’t have pain, but did feel a little discomfort and noticed that my monthly nueva ring birth control (that I had been using for years with out issue) suddenly did not seem easy to place easily, it was very uncomfortable and kept moving forward. I was told by my doctor that she had never heard of that being related to the LEEP, but to me it seemed to much of a coincidence, after about 6 months, everything seemed to go back to normal. I don’t regret my decision to get a LEEP and feel fortune to be healthy at this point, but I do suggest other Women really research first and do what is right for them as everyone’s experiences can be really different depending on how their body reacts. Thank you for starting this discussion Faith, its now to hear about others experiences.
Kait,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience, and I’m sorry you had to go through that. I too was crying and in a lot of pain (and like you, I have a high treashold!) during the actual procedure even though the doctor said he’d never had a patient experience pain with it before.
At this point I don’t regret my decision, I thought long and hard before making it and it was the best choice between several very hard choices, but I do think that it’s important for women to hear about the range of experiences before having a LEEP. Personally, I would have taken a “watch and wait” approach if it had been anything less than CIN III but the progression of it scared me. It’s often hard to remember that we are each the captain of our own body, I think it’s really common to place so much faith in a doctors hands that we become unempowered to make our own decisions about our body.
I am so glad to hear that you are feeling back to normal, it’s a good reminder to me that in time all of this will probably be a distant memory.
Thanks again for writing!
I just had my biopsy dr said my 1200 section she biopsied concerned her. Freaking out about the whole situation. I’m an emotional roll er coaster. Hubby tris to be supportive but he doesn’t know what to say so he in turn says nothing. Which to me is a lot worse. She is waiting on biopsy results to see if it is cancer but said I will be scheduled for the leep soon. I am beyond scared never had any kind of surgery. I feel like I am going crazy most pl probably don’t feel this way I’m over reacting. But I’m terified. My mom went In to get cryo done cane out with total hysterectomy because of endometriosis and cysts. So scared
Hi Heather, I’m scheduled for a LEEP in two weeks.
How are you feeling after 3/4 months?
Kait..thanks for sharing. I must say you ease my mind abit. Did this procedure this morning and I was shaking through the procedure especially at the end. I was feeling discomfort also. It’s now approximately 6hrs since I did it and there are not much bleeding only thing my legs feels little hurting almost like they are tired.I am still hoping for the best in the future as I do believe it should be okay.I only have one child and want to get pregnant again by age 31
Thankfully I was under general anesthesia for my Leep yesterday. I felt wonderful yesterday (my surgery was at 10 a.m.). But today I am having quite a bit of lower back pain, and just really tired. Nothing Ibuprufen and a warm blanket can’t take care of but I’m glad I have another day off work.
Hi there I had my procedure this morning and about 10 hours later the bottom of my arms are numb/heavy. Is this what you felt too?! I’ve been looking to see if it’s normal and nothing comes up
I just had one last week under General anesthesia. I’m happy I got put out bc the way I felt after was horrible. I have high grade changes but margins were clear. I’m pretty fit and hopefully returning back to working out tomorrow. I am still quite swollen. Was this an issue for any of you? If so..how long? It’s nice to have a sound board about this. I can’t believe how emotional this whole process has been. I am grateful for the results but will be happy when my body feels like me again.
Hello Megan,
To answer your question…
I too have been very swollen. So much so that it looks like I have a tiny baby bump. (I usually have a very flat stomach).
I had my leep last Friday. I had bleeding for a few days and got my period, right on schedule shortly after. It was difficult to differentiate the pain between my period and the leep because they felt very similar. My concern was that, I usually have my period for 6 days with a decent amount of bleeding, after the leep, I only had my period for 3 days. The first 2 were regular bleeding and the last day there was pretty much nothing. I have read so much about the procedure affecting hormones that it has not phased me to call my doctor. Hopefully thats normal! It’s all scary when you are trying to have a baby for the first time!!
My doctor said nothing inside the vagina for 2 weeks…i have read other woman being told one month!!! Not sure what the difference is there?!
Heal well!
I too have been swollen…my tummy feels tight
Also low abdominal pain, rectal pain and pressure, and difficulty urinating
I had my LEEP yesterday morning
Should I be scared?
Hey hun. I’m not even 48 hours past my LEEP that I had under Profopol and yesterday I started getting the bloating, pains in rectum, and vag area like I have trapped gas really bad. Did yours ever subside? I still feel tired, mentally and physically as well. I had my leep done on my period
Be concerned. Push fluids. Vitamin C and try colloidal silver in large amounts as your antibiotic. try contacting dr. nick leroy in Chicago area. look for a doc through aaem.org
American Academy of Enviromental Medicine. Find a naturopath consultant through AANC.net Call your doc and ask for antibiotics that you can tolerate and ask no demand the vag suppository antibiotics. demand them as soon as they can possibly be used seeing as they are inserted, that they are against…..I had eshcarotic from Dr. Nick but the Sastun Center might be better or University of Bridgeport.
Hi Tosha
I still have slight rectal pressure and bloating 3 weeks out…and pressure in my kegel area, which my dr told me was normal
I did feel better once I went to the bathroom…and yes, I have intermittent gas, still 3 weeks out
Hope you are feeling better
Hi I feel like this stomach is so tight and pulling and it’s been 2 weeks after. Did yours settle?
Hi Donna, I am so sorry you’re experiencing this. I had a pulling discomfort in my lower right abdominal area for many months post LEEP. My dr had no experience with this, no answers, and very little concern but it was painful and scary for a long time for me. In fact, that area has never been the same; I still sometimes get that pulling sensation.
I wish you a full recovery and am sending you a big virtual hug.
I am bloated to the point I look 9 months pregnant. Called my gastro to see what the hell is going on. Bloating just keeps getting worse. Had mine Sept. Look horrible
I had mine end of April
And echo day my bloating seems worse it looks like I’m very pregnant as well what happened with you ?
Hi Sara,
I so sorry you are going through this.
I don’t honestly remember the bloating being that extreme for me but there is a lot about the experience that I’ve blocked or has faded with time.
big hug, F
I had the LEEP procedure done about 12 years ago. I recall being uncomfortable for a while but I don’t remember how long it lasted. I am currently pain free and have had clear Pap tests ever since my LEEP. At the time I knew I wasn’t ready to have kids but I was worried the LEEP might hinder my ability to start a family one day in the future….fortunately it did not! My husband and I were able to get pregnant our first month of trying and we now have 17 month old twin boys! Maybe LEEPs mean you’ll have twins, so watch out! (just kidding). My cervix held up BEAUTIFULLY during the entire pregnancy. I exercised every day and carried the babies full term. There was a fear my cervix would need to be stitched up and I’d have to go on bed rest due to the weight of the babies but I didn’t have a single problem. My boys weighed 6 lbs & 7 lbs at birth.
You seem to be regretting your decision to have the LEEP. You made the best decision you could based on the information you had at the time. Don’t second guess yourself. The land of “what ifs” is toxic. Honor your body, rest when you feel pain, and have faith in your body’s ability to heal. Good luck!
Julie, Thanks so much for sharing, you have no idea how comforting this is too me. I generally don’t “do” regret, I agree it’s toxic, but you’re right-I was feeling really frustrated and powerless when I wrote that post. I keep telling myself that I need to get over the whole thing and move on and I will soon, it’s just taking a little time because I have this daily nagging reminder. I am thrilled to hear that your cervix did great through pregnancy-with twins! Always helpful to hear about other people’s experience, thanks again.
Thank you, Julie!
Today marks 4 weeks since my LEEP proceedure and my biggest “regret” is fear that I will have complications during pregnancy. My heart is relieved knowing that you were able to birth twins with no complocations! I’m having a hard time finding info about how to take care of oneself post proceedure. Did you take any supportive vitamins, supplements, or do anything else to strengthen and heal your cervix? My husband and I want to start a family soon but I’m wondering if I should wait? If so how long!? How long after your proceedure did you get pregnant? Any info or advice you have to share would be great!
Thank you!
Hi Lara! I just had a LEEP done about four months ago and I’m also worried about it hindering a future pregnancy. My doctor said I was able to have sex and use tampons after two weeks so I listened to his orders. After going through forums I’ve read a month to six weeks is the actual time that most doctors want you to wait after a LEEP. Since then, I spot for four days before my period and now I’m afraid that scarring has narrowed my cervix which is causing tthe menstrual blood to not flow out as per usual. He checked my healing two weeks after the surgery and said I was fine.
After sex I’m also noticing that I can significantly feel the presence of my cervix. Hopefully this is just all in my head and I’m just having PTSD or something but I’m freaking out! I was diagnosed with CIN2. I wish I would have done more research but I’m just curious if you experienced any of this?
Thank you,
Sara
Hi… I had a leep done about 2 weeks ago and I am still in very bad pain and have a yellow pinkish discharge should I b concerned because I am freakin out help!!!!!!!
Hi Crystal, how are you feeling now? Have you talked to your doc? I had mild pain for months afterward and discharge lasted 4-5 weeks, although it decreased by the day. Please talk to your doctor and if you are not happy with them, find a new one. Acupuncture helped me a lot with the stress of the whole situation. Please let me know how you are doing and take good care of yourself, I know it’s a really stressful time.
Hi, I had a LEEP procedure done 4 months ago. I had a high grade of cell abnormality (CIN III) and the doctor recommended LEEP. I haven’t had a follow-up appointment for a PAP test yet, although it is coming up soon.
My main concern is the length of recovery time that it takes for the body to return back to normal. I have had almost constant discharge of blood throughout the entire 4 months. Recently, I noticed that there is about a week to 10 days of no discharge following my period, and then the spotting (then bleeding) starts up again for about 10 days BEFORE my actual period starts. The bleeding that precedes my period is not heavy at first, just spotting, and then gradually increases in volume as I near the start of my period.
From what I have been reading online though, it seems that the recovery time post LEEP may depend on the grade of cell abnormality that one had prior to the procedure. Given that I had a CIN III – it is reasonable to assume that the doctor had to remove more cell tissue from my cervix than from a patient with less cell abnormality. It seems to be that this has a direct correlation on one’s experience with recovery and the length of time it takes for the body to heal.
While I do tend to think of my situation using the reasoning above, the emotional and physical impact from the recovery are beginning to take their toll on me. I am a single, 26-year old, trying to date in an effort to establish my personal life. Yet, this horrible post-LEEP recovery is seriously affecting my motivation and actual ability of doing so.
I know my post was mostly rambling, but I just felt the need to vent.
Thank you for reading and I wish everyone a speedy recovery! Any comments or feedback from someone having a similar experience would be appreciated! 🙂
First of all, thank you for writing! I know that this can be a really hard and personal thing to talk about, I had huge trepidation towards writing about it in the beginning.
Second, I fully understand the stress of recovery and the huge variance of “normal” within it. The stress leading up to the LEEP is so intense that I thought I’d feel a sense of relief once it was over and things would go back to normal but instead I had 4-5 weeks of discharge and a lot of pelvic pain and then another 4+ months of a constant tugging pain on my pubic bone.
I will say that my 3 month follow up pap helped calm me quite a bit. My doctor is very nonchalant and while that can be irritating it also helped that he wasn’t concerned at all. Waiting for the results was hard but as soon as I heard everything was “normal” I felt like I could breath again and move on with life, I sincerely hope you still have the same experience.
Another thing that has helped me in my recovery is to remember that just because I had the LEEP, this is not over. I know it sounds a little scary but I can also use it to my advantage; I remind myself that it is imperative to take good care of my body. I’ve continued with a lot of the natural regimen I was following before the LEEP. It is empowering to me to feel connected with my body that way and like I am doing what I can to be healthy.
My thoughts are with you and I wish nothing but a full and swift recovery from this point forward. Please feel free to write again in a few weeks and let me know how it went at your follow up and if anything has changed. Sending you lots of love!
Hi everyone, this message is in reply to Carrie but also to Faith, and anyone else reading this thread. I so appreciate that you created this post Faith, its a great space for women to share their experiences about this procedure (which can be hard to get information about) I posted once before when I was a year out from the procedure. Carrie, I was also a CIN III and it sounds like Faith was too. From what I can tell everyone has very different experiences in their recovery; I did not have the long term bleeding you are speaking of, and from what I have read neither did Faith, but we both had long term symptoms that we were told we “should not” be experiencing. I just want to encourage you to hang in there and know that the emotional impact of the procedure and the after affect of how your body reacts (however it does) is real, and it makes sense you’re having a hard time. I definitely feel for you. And I really believe it is going to get better. Just keep being a great advocate for yourself and stick to your guns at the Doctors office!
I also wanted to address what Faith said in her response comment that “recovery is to remember that just because I had the LEEP, this is not over” That is so true. After clean paps for over a year I got results that showed the displaysia was back. I was pretty devastated, I immediately started dreading the idea of going through the LEEP again, I did have a biopsy again but luckily the results at this point are benign. So I’m back to 3 month paps and we’ll wait and see. I don’t mention this to scare anyone but it has definitely been a wake up call for me and has really strengthened my desire to address my health (physical, mental, and emotional) in as many natural ways as I know how, to hopefully address the health issue on all levels. Good Luck to Carrie and everyone else going through this and I encourage people to update, its helpful to hear other’s experiences and where they are at.
Thank you so much for sharing.
My post-leep story is a pretty horrid one. I had mine done 2 yrs ago. My first period afterwards came as just spotting. This was very abnormal for me, I’m a bleeder. So I spotted for a couple hours and then it quit; however my cramps intensified. I ended up driving myself to the er in the wee hours of the morning. After numerous tests i was sent to ultrasound. While being poked and prodded with the vaginal ultrasound wand, low and behold she broke up my scar tissue and the flood gates opened. I thought i was pretty special to be in the 1% of rare women to experience my cervix scarring shut. Anywho 2 yrs later, my periods are very light and very painful. My ob swears that my cervix is good to go, but i don’t feel that she is taking me seriously. I have also been trying to get pregnant with no success, i have to wonder…if stuff can barely get out, how will the swimmers get in?
Oh girl, you’re story brought tears to my eyes because I can only imagine the stress, anxiety, and frustration you may be feeling. So sorry to hear about your experience, truly. Have you/can you seek a second opinion? Are you open to an alternative route? I don’t know what acupuncture can do for the scarring but I’ve found it to do wonders for my stress and my acu told me she has great hormone balancing herbs when I’m ready for pregnancy. Lots of love to you and thanks for writing.
I am having through leep procedure done in two days. I am terrified. I am getting married in December and this was a huge bump in our plans. We both want children so bad so just the thought of that not being a possibility is devastating. I had quite a bit of pain after the colpo and biopsy. I have researched my butt off and Idk what is right for me. My doctor is wonderful and i trust her completely. Im just so scared. I have been fighting panic attacks since i found out. Do any of you have any advice for keeping calm.
First of all, I am really sorry to hear that you are going through that. Second, bring your fiancé into the procedure if possible and if you are comfortable with it. Not to give you more anxiety but I found it painful and having Tate there to soothe me and let me squeeze his hand (like crazy) helped. Also, give yourself rest that day and the next. Like, don’t plan anything if possible. Your doc may say its not a big deal and you can work or go about your life but it is a big deal and you may feel tender physically and emotionally for a while afterward. I was uncomfortably crampy for at least 24 hours and probably should have taken it even easier for 4-5 days afterward. Lots of love and best wishes, please come back and let me know how you are doing if you feel up to sharing.
Faith
I had a LEEP done about 5 days ago for CIN III. I was under general anesthesia and so didn’t feel anything. Recovery so far hasn’t been too bad. Not that much pain really. I only had some discharge for the first 2-3 days, but was really bloated and had to pee a lot. That was the worst of it, and even that’s getting much better now.
Although it sounds scary ladies, if your doc recommends it, please get it done. Don’t leave it until it’s too late. you’ll have a much better shot to have babies if you don’t need a hysterectomy, chemo or radiation in the future. Some women aren’t so lucky …
Thank you for sharing your experience, I had a LEEP procedure a few days ago, and I am still shaken and really needed to kmow that not everyone recovers in 2 or 3 days…
Nadia,
No, recovery is frustratingly slow for many women, including myself. The physical and mental aspects of the LEEP will fade with time though, keep breathing and being kind to yourself. Best wishes to you! I will send lots of swift recovery thoughts your way!
xo
F
Thanks for the encouraging words. Everything went as planned but nine days after my procedure I had major bleeding and had to go to the emergency room. Apparently it is a normal occurrence. The doc said I overdid it at work. But everything is back to normal and I’m cancer free!!
Ericka, so glad to hear that everything came back clear!! Thanks for letting me know! I’m one year past the LEEP and looking back I feel like it took me at least 7 months to ‘get over it’ and not let the whole thing be a part of my day to day life.
How did they stop the bleeding? How would you explain major bleeding?
Sorry for all the questions but I woke up this morning bleeding and I had my procedure done yesterday
It’s normal to bleed after. You’ll have to wear a pad for a day or 2
Thanks to all of you for sharing your experience. I had the procedure 7 days ago. The actual procedure wasn’t bad at all. I felt completely fine the first 3 or 4 days (on Ibuprofen & prescription pain killers), little discharge. Now, yucky discharge & bleeding, very bloated, severe lower back pain & cramping the past 3 days. Doctor called me with lab results on Monday and now recommends a hysterectomy. So unfortunately I’ll be dealing with this for a while! I can resume light exercise tomorrow so I’m hoping I will start to feel better…
Thank you for sharing and I’m so sorry to hear that the results of your LEEP weren’t clear. My thoughts are with you. I hope your recovery is progressing well. Lots of love, faith
Firstly: thank you ALL for posting on this subject and with such clarity and articulation. After many abnormal paps over the last few years and 2 biopsies, I had my first (and hopefully last) LEEP a few days ago. I agree with the procedure and felt centered and did lots of work with my acupuncturists and even yoga teacher to find strength and openness in my hips and mental state to welcome the treatment and use nutrition and health changes to heal and move on. ALL that being said: It freakin sucked!!! It was more brutal than I was in an way prepared for. While anxiety prior to such an event isn’t encouraged, give a lady some honest truth before and during! I’m Irish, stubborn, a double Capricorn, and covered in tattoos, and a bartender! Now I can’t lift anything heavy( key to my job) and feel totally unprepared for what happened. I’m only cic one, but please tell your doctors to be straight with how to mentally prepare and get an anti-anxiety pill for before and water pills and pain pills for after. I’m doing homeopathy and all my normal traditional healing practice, but western medicine is mandatory. Also I put one ear bud in and had my meditation music on my phone to help control my breathing and visual distraction. Strongly suggest! My positive and healing energy to you all and fingers crossed to no other form of HPV in my future or yours
Thank you so much for writing and sharing. My heart goes out to you for having to deal with the whole situation. From my personal experience it takes a lot of time to heal, in every way. Physically, it was several months before I felt more or less recovered. Even still I have some symptoms that linger (I should post on this soon). Emotionally, my 3 month follow up pap last February brought a lot of healing. I had a lot of anxiety about the appointment then held my breath waiting for the results. When the phone call came in that it was “normal” I had a rush of relief that made me realize just how much stress and tension I’d been holding on to. After about 6 months post LEEP I finally felt like it was in the past.
Thanks again for sharing and Im sending you tons of healing thoughts.
Love, f
i had a leep procedure done about 2-3 mths ago and i have to say omg this sux. i have had sharp pains since the procedure and as far as periods my bleeding is the same but cramping is crazy.. so painful. of corse the dr says im healing beautifully but i dont feel it. also i was bleeding from intercorse even tho they said i souldnt have been. Nothing feels the same on my insides now and i get terrable migraines. did anyone else get migraines after the procedure? i got them b4 but not this bad, there so bad now it affects my vision. im glad i found this page because it shows me im not the only one who is having trouble after the leep. i hope everyone a speedy recovery and thank you so much for sharing
Oh girl, your comment brought tears to my eyes! I’m so sorry you are going through that. Its been a year and a half since my LEEP and my PMS and period pain has gotten increasingly more intense, bleeding heavier, and more clotting. It’s on my to-do list today to make a doc appointment, including trying to change doc’s on my friends recommendation. I’ve had two follow-ups (February 2012 and September 2012) and both times my doc said I was healing great and he wasn’t concerned that I am still experiencing pain and mysterious symptoms. SO frustrating. I am going to write some follow-up posts soon. Once again, so sorry you are going through this. Lots of love and healing thoughts coming your way. Faith
Everyones stories have touched me greatly. I had my leep done 10 days ago. Today i was suppose to return to work, which i did 3 hours into working i doubled over in pain, im not one to cry but it hurt so bad. It was a free for all. Cramps feel the same as day 2, i was starting to think i was just weak( i dont do pain well) because my doctor told me i would be fine. She is great but i am still.waiting for her to call me back after 7 hours of my first call. I havent recieved any results yet that is this friday. Hot and cold flashes sweating but no fever. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone.
I had a Leep done 10 days ago. I’ve gone back to the Dr. twice because of pain. Both times they had to stick a speculum inside me in order to “see” the cervix and I honestly feel like I know what it is to be tortured. I’m concerned because the speculum wasn’t even touching my cervix – has anyone else had this? I’m so tired of the pain. My Dr. keeps telling me nothing appears to be wrong, I’m healing nicely, blah blah blah. Meanwhile I’m in low-grade constant pain that intensifies if I have to go to the bathroom or with any “pushing”. Ugh, this is so embarrassing. I can’t imagine ever being able to have sex again pain free – It just want my life back!!!
First of all, I sincerely hope that your pain has decreased and you are on the mend from the LEEP. I was unpleasantly surprised by how long it took me to heal, probably at least 4 months before I didn’t think about it regularly. My heart goes out to you, feel free to write again if you need to talk about your experience. I personally found it helpful, emotionally, to write about it on here and talk to people about it, even though I tend to be a really private person in general.
Lots of love to you.
Iv just read all your comments and im so relieved im not alone! I was cin 3 and had treatment 3mths ago but im getting a really sharp pain to the right of my cervix (i think thats where the treatment was done) im not due another colposcopy until sept,no bleeding or discharge just the sharp pain.i to felt awful after treatment it really upset me,and i felt down about it for weeks and i am really dreading going back in sept incase i need more!
I have had 3 LEEP procedures now and each of them wasn’t painful at all. My OBGYN is female and she has been very thorough each time in anesthetizing (perhaps because she is more apt to know what it feels like). She also explained to me that some doctors can cut away more tissue than is necessary which can lead to discomfort down the road. She makes sure to only cut away as much is necessary and the procedure it self takes under a minute. All the numbing up and explaining takes the longest. The biggest issue that I have had is that I have noticed an increase in pain during my menstrual cycle. Its been really frustrating because it seems I have a very stubborn strain and it just won’t go away and all anyone can tell me is “Don’t smoke” which is irritating since I do not and I don’t hang out in bars and other places where I would get 2nd hand smoke. Good luck with your health.
Hi. I had the LEEP surgery done about 4 weeks ago and have seen my Dr and he reported that I was healing well and that I could have sex. But when my boyfriend and I had sex, it was so painful that he had to pull out. My Dr also reported that I had full blown cancer that had spread further than he realized. I’m just afraid that something went wrong because he also removed the rest of my hymen that was causing pain. I just want to make love with my boyfriend, he’s been so patient. I’m afraid that my Dr screwed something up, he’s a Medicaid Dr and not very attentive.
Oh sweetheart, I’m so sorry to hear you are going through this. Can you switch doctors at least? I am working with a really wonderful woman now. She still comes from a super straight-line allopathic standpoint but she is very attentive and makes me feel like she is actually hearing my concerns. Sending you lots of love!
after being told in April of 2013 I had hpv and pap was abnormal my life stopped, I wAs 39 years old. I went through two colposcopes, then it was leep time there was moderate dysplasia between 11 and 1. It is now March 10th 2014 the day for the leep so for now a year almost my life stopped. I go in and it hurt so bad I can’t even cope, no bleeding or discharge yet but some mild cramping and it was three days ago. I do t understand if you still have the hpv virus what keeps it from coming right back. I’m so scared and confused. The emotional feelings I had overcome me after the procedure was worse then the pain though. Help me cope with this.
My heart goes out to you. I just responded to your comment with my latest post, Oversharing. Best wishes, love, and hugs coming your way. Faith
I had the LEEP procedure done yesterday so it is too early to tell what my recovery will be and if this is the final step in this journey of mine. Im still really scared of what the outcome will be seeing as how it has gotten worse from when I had the biopsy done in early February. I do know that I have a very attentive gynecologist who will see me at the drop of a hat and listens to my concerns. I have a feeling that with the discomfort I’ve experienced just after having the biopsy done that my LEEP recovery will not be an easy one.
Thank you so much for writing Michelle. Based on personal experience, I highly recommend you take it really easy for at least a week, even if your doc says you are fine to return to normal activity. I am finding it really helpful to continue with my supplement plan, it makes me feel empowered and proactive. I am thinking about writing a post outlining what I’m taking but in the meantime if you are interested in doing your own research I found this paper informative and in line with all the other research I came across. Page 11 is where the supplement studies start.
http://www.katolenyardley.com/Cervical%20Dysplasia.pdf
Sending you best wishes for a swift and complete recovery.
Faith
I had mine done on Friday (today’s Monday) and so far I’m doing ok. I had mine done at a sugery center and they knocked me out – I recommend that and count myself lucky to have been knocked out. I’m so sorry to hear those horrific stories. So if you can, maybe have it done at a surgery center and tell them you don’t want to be awake 🙂
I have cramping and light discharge, and slept for all of Friday and laid around on Sat and some of Sunday, still tired but getting better. What are some homeopathic ways to beat this crap?
I’m so thankful we can have this treatment at all, before it turns to cervical cancer. I lost my aunt to ovarian cancer a couple months ago becauset hey caught it too late, so thankful we can catch it early. Hang in there ladies! I’m w/ ya!
Hi ladies..
I had my leep procedure on Monday morning,, because of abnormal Pap smear..I had anthesia .. I wanted to be out for this surgery.. Today is Friday.. The day after surgery I got home and rested,, slept abit.. I was very thirsty.. Extremely dry mouth. Very dizzy,, walked with a bent over back.. No bleeding. Bloated belly.. Bad headache.. For the past few days.. I have been getting sharp pains and watery discharge,, I get up to pee every half hour it’s crazy!! I had a UTI before the surgery.. So Iam wondering if I have another one ??I take 1000mg of Tylenol.. And took just last night 5mg of morphine the pain was making me cry, it took the age off,, it was hard to get to sleep,, got me dizzy.., Iam a strong lady , I have had 5 pregnancies,, 2 vaginal births.. Gave birth to babies 21 weeks,, and 20 weeks lost them,.. Have a incompetent cervix . Had to stay in the hospital lay in bed legs upright . Wasn’t aloud to walk.sit up. Shower!! Complete bed rest!! Water broke at 24 weeks,, emergency c-section. My son was born 24 weeks stayed in nicu for mos.. He is 10 years old today.. My tummy is so swollen) bloated it’s like Iam 5 months pregnant!! I can’t wear pants,, hoping it gets better,, I hope I don’t bleed I was haemorrhaging 1 week before the leep.. And was hospitalized was given meds through I.V… Taking one day at a time.. I tried to do housework like vacuming and washing the floors,, but got dizzy and was sweating,, so I think I will take it easy now.. Good luck to all,, god bless.. Keep strong!!
I had written back in April about the LEEP and the results of it had come back a few weeks later. It was cancer. I will admit…I was a wreck and some days I still am. My best option was to have a hysterectomy which was done a few weeks ago. I never wanted to have children so I was ok with it. Now that the deed is done, im sad that I no longer have the option to have my own. I would now take the LEEP any day over this. I go back on Tuesday to see if I require any additional treatment. Crossing my fingers that I don’t.
I’m so sorry to hear that Michelle…..Update?
I’m 26, had CIN 2 and I had the LEEP 3 days ago. Aside from the speculum entering, it was pretty much painless, which was such a great relief because pap smears and colposcopys are so painful and uncomfortable for me. The whole procedure took about 5 minutes, thank goodness. So after inserting the speculum, she used a q-tip to put some dye on the area to highlight the abnormal cells to be removed. This causes some minor cramping. Then, she injected the medicine which caused my legs to shake uncontrollably. I was embarrassed but they told me it was fine and not to try to control it. They turned on the vacuum like machine which made a lot of noise and then then there was a strong burning smell. She did about 4 or 5 “scrapes”(not sure if that’s the right word). She put something on it to stop the bleeding and then it was over. I actually broke out in tears after it was over — no idea why. I think that I just felt overwhelmed and unsure about what was going on with my body. The first OBGYN I went to at my university medical clinic to have my pap done gave me so much wrong information. I left feeling like I was on the brink of cervical cancer. Also, people (including gynecologists!) act like its taboo to talk about HPV when it seems like almost everyone has it. My current gyn is so knowledgeable about it, but then again, this is her specialty. Either way, she only gives information about HPV if you ask specific questions, so you have to know what to ask, which pisses me off.
Anyway, I actually had to move some boxes at my job the very next day and felt strong enough to do it, so I did. I don’t think that was expressly wise, but I’m recovering so far without any complications (I think). Mostly just a constant watery-red discharge so I have to wear pantiliners. My doctor didn’t tell me anything about not having sex. She only mentioned that I will need to be seen in 6 months, but when I checked out, no one asked me about scheduling an appointment. I have no idea if she’s going to call me back with the results from the LEEP. This thread has been informative. I’m gonna give my doctor’s office a call now. I’m also gonna go without sex for 2 months to make sure I’m fully recovered. This post has been so helpful and I hope my experience can help someone else out.
It’s 2015 – I suppose most people from this thread would have moved on now. I don’t even know what country this blog originates.
However, 6 months after my LEEP procedure I am still addressing the repercussions.
These forums share so much more than the 4 doctors I have attended. I am so thankful to you all for your upfront honesty.
I had a terrible first time pap smear. I was in my early 20’s. My sexual experiences were minimal. I had no support network. The nurse doing the pap had an intern with her. They opened me up, told me my something-or-other was too high, and spend a good 20 minutes foraging around down there. I was told to relax as my obvious tension was making it difficult for them to do the work.
Distraught and emotionally sensitive, I never returned for another pap.
6 years later, while in a doctors surgery supporting my friend, a receptionist at the doctors randomly asks me to do a pap smear. She said it was important and asked me when my last one was. When I kept cancelling the appointments she would call my mobile number each week until I attended. She may have saved my life.
The pap took 30 seconds (with me freaking out every single minute before and during). The doctor was amazing. I returned, and she advised I had an abnormal pap – that I needed to attend the specialist immediately. She gave me a letter and off I went. The specialist took me in a day later, discussed openly the appointments coming up, and said they needed to do a biopsy.
Biopsy hurt a little, I’ll admit. They were meant to do a vinegar test, and another chemical test. But when she put the vinegar on my cervix nearly the entire surface went a white colour. She didn’t do the second test – just took the pap and explained that no, I don’t have cancer – but she needs to send off to pathology and find out whats going on.
My lower abdomen felt like it was turning in on itself a week after.
The specialist confirmed I had CINIII (a lot of it), but not cancer – I cried my eyes out.
They discussed the three procedures they were reviewing to remove the CINIII – LEEP, Lazer, or Cone. The doctor said they wanted to do LEEP on me, as I want to have babies in future and the Leep would not remove as many cm’s as the Cone. They discussed with me how and why I may have CINIII, confirmed that I can’t feel awful about having contracted HPV (the STD that created the abnormal cells) and explained that just about every person out there who has had sex has a form of HPV. They told me not to carry guilt for not having my pap smear done earlier, that they understood the hesitation but what was important now was to address the issue and continue regular check ups.
I had the LEEP procedure done within a fortnigh from the original doctors pap smear test. All of my friends who have had it done (all had children before their procedures) told me it was a piece of cake and I would be normal the next day.
I couldn’t walk the next day. I thought after a day it was all in my head so I went back to work. I sat down in the kitchen area that morning, clenching my stomach and turning white in the face. I started shaking, and my discharge started to smell. I went to the local doctor – who told me I must have an infection and gave me Doxylin 100 subscription. I went to the chemist, and collapsed on the floor. I wasn’t in pain – but my insides were pulling themselves apart and I all I felt was a numbness – without being able to move. Then the pain started. It was so abnormal – not like a cut or a burn. Just this major pulling sensation like my body had done a major abdominal work out and was continuing on past exhaustion.
My partner picked me up, we drove to the hospital but the line up was very big, and my body was shaking. The first dose of medication led to a severe reaction and I became stoned out – unable to respond much to anything. I called the specialist, they told me to return to the doctor as I was given incorrect medication.
I went to another doctor from the same surgery – who told me my shaking was just from emotional stress, checked my cervix and said it was healing, and told me to take smaller dosed medication as the Doxylin was too strong. I advised the doctor I had been experiencing body issues where my legs and body just stop – along with all the other things going on. The doctor told me I shouldn’t be experiencing that.
I called my friends. They said it was probably from stress. At this stage, four doctors had opened my legs to check what might be happening in there.
Another fortnight later, of each day experiencing pulling issues, shaking, and a ‘leg lock’ where my legs just stop – I went to see the specialist in concern. My partner urged me to, and tried to support me each step of the way. Finally, the specialist said that my symptoms reflected something quite uncommon – that he had only seen in women who had the procedure during menopause. He told me that it may be that the LEEP procedure occurred when my period was trying to come through – but as my period only ever comes intermittently we couldn’t track it to be sure. He said that my body might be attempting to bleed, but is being ‘stopped’ from doing so. Other doctors told me this was ridiculous but I think the specialist might be onto something. It’s been 6 months now and I still experience severe shaking and stomach pulling – and leg lock each time I exercise strenuously.
I am not writing this to scare anyone. I don’t regret having LEEP done – but didn’t realise there was an option to not have it done. The doctors seemed pretty adamant on addressing what was going on whether I wanted to or not.
I have been told that in two years I can try for babies 🙂
But I will say, that regardless of how many doctors you go to – who tell you ‘you shouldn’t be experiencing this’, press on. And on. I thought I was insane – and so many people have said that my symptoms are purely anxiety and emotional – until they see the leg shakes or leg locks for themselves.
By talking about our experiences, maybe we can urge medical authorities out there to DOCUMENT these symptoms post procedure. Maybe a researcher out there, someday (if they haven’t already) will find out why our bodies are reacting to the procedure and find a better way. But we won’t ever find out unless we openly discuss our experience and our symptoms – and what happens after.
I am writing to urge anyone out there to speak openly, as everyone has done on this blog for a couple of years. Most women don’t experience issues post LEEP procedures, but nothing can be improved or looked into unless we say something when things don’t go right.
I wish you all the best in healing, and a happy future ahead.
– Hayley
I had a LEEP 2 days ago for CIN3. Doctor said I had no restrictions and should have no bleeding or pain. So I went home and was playing with my 3yr old daughter when I felt a gush. My daughter rolling on me knocked a clot loose. My husband rushed me to the emergency room and by simply laying there the bleeding allowed down. Now it’s like a light period. I have cramping and bloating and it sucks. I find out in two weeks if I need a hysterectomy. The ER was shocked the doctor didn’t give me restrictions and thinking about it I feel like DUH they cut chunks of me out. OF COURSE the recovery will suck a little. You live and learn I suppose.
Hi Rachel,
First, so sorry you had that experience! It’s a hard enough thing to go through without any complications. I too am so surprised your doc didn’t give you restrictions. I was told no exercise (even light) for the rest of the day, no sex or anything (tampons, etc.) in there for a month, and that there would be bleeding and then discharge (with an odor) for about a month.
Sending you a hug and healthy cervix thoughts,
Faith
Hi everyone.
I had my LEEP 2 weeks ago. My biopsy (after colposcopy) showed CINIII or severe dysplasia. Later on, an addendum was performed on my biopsy report. I suppose sometimes, they go back at look further into CINIII cases to do further review. The secondary biopsy report said (in fancy medical terms) that certain cells reflected CINIII when tested further and certain cells simply showed inflammation. It said that because this biopsy could be mistaken for inflammation and not CINIII that “the patient may wish to seek different therapeutic treatment”. I am sure that means the patient might reconsider having a LEEP. My gynecologist still recommended treatment. My husband and I decided that my fear of having precancerous cells or the possibility of them turning into something worse was simply not worth “waiting it out”, so I decided to go ahead with the LEEP. Apparently, inflammation being mistaken for CIN III is not uncommon! Inflammation of the cervix can be caused from tampon irritation, infection, sex, even frequent bubble baths that cause build up of bacteria.
As I am healing, I am finding myself second guessing my decision to do this. I too, along with most of you, have had non-stop discharge, pain in the lower back, pelvic pain, and the worst one (to me)- BLOATING. I wake up bloated. (I use to love waking up with a flat tummy, now it’s the opposite). I have to remind myself how terrified I was leading up to the Leep because I felt like every day that was passing was an opportunity for those nasty cells to get worse. I suppose going back and forth with this is normal and I have to be ok with that. Having symptoms that affect your daily life will certainly make you second guess yourself.
I want to assure the ladies out there who are awaiting their LEEP that the anticipation is the worst part. I went in quite nervous, but it wasn’t all that bad and is over and done with before you know. I took an ativan beforehand to calm my nerves and 800mg of ibuprofen. I also asked if I could listen to my meditation music on my phone beside my head on the table!!! Hey whatever works right? It calms me down. I wouldn’t listen to the horror stories of LEEPs. Please, skip those once you hear “horrifying” and “excruciating”. We are far too advanced in medical care for women to be feeling their leep procedures and being in excruciating pain.
Now that I know, thanks for this thread, that I can expect these nagging symptoms for some time to come, I won’t become too impatient and irritated with all of this. It’s all a process.
Good luck everyone!
Jenny
I had the LEEP procedure March 11th, 2015. When I got the news from my doctor I became very depressed and still depressed. I’ve only had one partner since I was 24-33 year old so I know where the HPV came from. I told him and he completely denies that he gave it to me. I cut off any interactions with him bc he’s cheated several times and will not admit that he has it. I feel dirty, ashamed, and terribly embarrassed. I feel even my doctor looks at me with disgust. I’m scared and not one day passes I don’t think about it. My HPV turned out to be high risk after having the LEEP. My cycle came on after I had the procedure so I had that bleeding without much pain. I was put to sleep so that gave me a little comfort before the surgery. I had little discharge also, it hurt me emotionally, mentally more than anything. I’m more afraid now because I have these pin and needle feeling in my thighs and I’m having all kinds of bad thoughts. I’m not imagining it, I been feeling it for several weeks now. I feel a little bit of dull pain on the inside but the pain in my thighs and sometimes sharp pain in my buttock area scares me. I’ve thought about blood clots, cancer that may have spread to my lymph nodes. I don’t have swelling but where I feel the pain is close to my private area. Has anyone else experienced this after a mth of having the surgery?? I cry and upset everyday and don’t have anyone to talk to about it. I have not gone back for my 3 mth appointment but I’m so scared that it’ll still be there. I just scared my doctor will look at me like I’m crazy when I tell him what I’m feeling. I don’t wanna die and the doctor told me that it’s NOT cancer but I’m so scared that it will quickly turn into cancer especially with this new pain I’m feeling in the inside of my thighs. Can someone please tell me if they’ve experienced this!?! I just lay in bed and don’t want to do anything, it’s like I hiding bc I’m embarrassed and feel like everyone know this secret about me. I don’t have children and fear I’ll never be able to carry a baby full term so I’ve given up on that and don’t want to be involved with anyone else fearing I get HPV again. I’m scared out of my mind and just can cope I don’t know what to do…please help.
Trish I’m am right with you Very depressed all the time anymore and I’m new to this so don’t really know where to start but I was diagnosed with HPV 10 years ago I am now 27 and have had 2 colposcopies 2 biopsies and now a leep procedure down 2 weeks ago recovery I thought was going well but now I think I might be getting a yeast infection and when calling my doctor to see if I should be seen she decided to call something in instead and now i am nervous to take the fluconazole and the side effects are worse than the itching( which is not bad at all) my question is is this common and should I take it? I also am wandering if a hysterectomy is something to look into when I was pregnant with my son I was diagnosed with CNI1 and sent to an oncologist to be sent home because he said there was nothing to worry about after my second baby pap result was normal(never in my life have I had one) and then 1 year after I noticed a cyst on my cervix ( which dr said was nabothyin )for the pap results came back ascus 3 months later colposcopy came out precancerous and so did the biopsies of the cyst so that’s y the leep was secduled received leep results that were also high grade precancerous cells what does this mean I’m very frustrated and confused just wandering what is next I’m a non smoker eat well enough healthy and I take vitamins and just am confused about the progression at this point my dr also has stated every time she does a procedure she says how normal everything looks but then results are scary could I have something else going on not to mention the lack of intimacy my husband and I have had for the last two years he is somewhat supportive however feels that I may be having procedures done for no reason I am just reaching out for answers and help at this point thank you for taking the time to read this short novel lol but in all seriousness prayers to everyone going through this horrible type of life I know it consumes every part of mine
I had my leep done a week ago today. I wasn’t too stressed bc it had to b done. I was found to b high grade. Although since procedure if I work to hard I’ll bleed some, constant discharge, lower back pain, cramping, urinating all time. I never want go through this again. Went dr wed make sure everything ok they said all looks fine. But I feel miserable.
thank you for sharing your stories. I have cin3 and high risk hpv and I am dreading the leep. I’m trying so hard to stay strong I went to 2 doctors already which both seem like it’s not real serious and I will be perfectly fine. It worries me if it comes back. my thoughts and prayers are with everyone.
Hi Ladies,
I have been trying to research if bloating was normal after LEEP procedure. I had the LEEP done May 13, 2015 & my experience was fine. Actually, was curious as to why I told not to work for two days because I felt like nothing was done. I think the scariest part was being put to sleep for it. It is now Saturday 3 days post LEEP & I feel like I am 3-4 months pregnant. I feel heavy, swollen & my stomach has expanded due to bloating. For any of you who have experienced severe bloating how long would you say is normal? I was on my 11th week of T25 & my stomach was flat & toned… I literally feel very pregnant & hating it… Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
I had mine done the day after yours, and am still experiencing EXTREME bloat. I quit smoking cold turkey when my doctor told me my dysplasia had gone from mild to moderate/severe, so I was already experiencing some bloating and constipation as a side effect from that (apparently that’s a thing that happens when you quit smoking). So, I have been attributing my bloat and discomfort to that this whole time, but, it’s been almost an entire month since I quit, and I seriously could pass for second trimester pregnancy right now. It’s awful.
I was starting to freak out a little, because, why on earth would I be bloated 2 weeks after a LEEP?? I had no idea that was even a possible side effect, until I started googling today, and saw a handful of women with the same complaint.
And I can relate, I’ve lost 80 pounds in the last 18 months, and was just getting used to waking up with a flat stomach. I had JUST bought my very first non-plus-sized swimsuit, and replaced my fat jeans with ones that actually fit, and now I can’t even wear them. I’ve pulled out my baggy t-shirts again. Quite discouraging 🙁
Anyway, I’m hoping someone comes along to answer your question, because I’m curious as well. This is driving me crazy. I’m supposed to wait another 2 weeks for my follow up appointment, but I’m going to call my doctor first thing Monday morning to see if I can get some answers.
Hi Shannon,
First of all, huge congratulations on losing 80 pounds AND quitting smoking!!! That’s really awesome, you must be really proud.
Second, I am truly sorry to hear that you had to have a LEEP. How are you feeling now?
Faith
A month ago I went into my ob/gyn to have a Pap smear done. My dr called me back a week later to inform me that the Pap smear revealed I have 4 precancerous cells and I needed to have a biopsy on my uterus immediately. Another week passed after having the biopsy, I was informed that not only do I have stage 2 precancerous cells, I also had HPV
So sometime is September I had an abnormal pap where they said they saw “significant development” in my cells on my cervix. I wasnt explained to much, I bombarded people with questions because I didnt full grasp. I knew my mom had had this when I was young but I knew very little. I trusted what the doctor said but I also really valued my mom’s experience. After discussing all these things with people I basically discovered I had high grade cells and its basically considered stage zero cancer, the very beginning stage of cancer. I was referred to a very nice Obgyn. She made sure I understood everything. I had a colposcopy done the around the middle of November. I honestly felt more discomfort from that than anything else. I had more cramping that Id ever felt and it resulted in some nausea. I got the results back two weeks later and she said they came back normal but she still wanted to do the LEEP because as she stated its two birds with one stone… Diagnosis AND treatment. I was basically getting a cone biopsy done where they remove a cone shaped area of my cervix and they send it to the lab to investigate the cells and see how far/deep any of this had spread. I thought I was fairly prepared for how I would feel because I had to have a D&C last year in september. I hadnt had hardly any pain at all during my D&C which was nice but I bled for a while. Well, my LEEP was today. Approx 12:30/1pm it began. I was out about 2pm. which is about right as i was told it would be approx 50min. They had given me a motion sickness patch to help with nausea as Anesthesia tends to make me nautious and cry for no reason. The patch helped alot though its side effects are they dry you out so I had a sore throat and dry mouth even after surgery. I do have some cramping but much less than after my original colposcopy. I was given acetaminophen with codeine and 800mg ibuprofen’s. and honestly i doubt ill need too many of those. I have VERY little bleeding. So little that its almost non existent, im only aware of it after use of toilet paper. I was SUPER pale, im pale to begin with, but fairly certain i looked like death about an hour after. And am still pale though not as bad. I have felt fine so this was surprising, but it seems that anesthesia doesnt like me much. So far I feel fine. No worse than if I were on my lady time. I do know however that every woman reacts different so I feel lucky that I came out the way I did and not in pain. My personal advice to anyone is if you’ve had anything done down there like a D&C, your reaction to that will most likely gauge how the LEEP will go. If you’ve never had anything done in that area, dont sweat it, your body will react the way it decides but you will be taken care of. I was impressed by how much concern there was for how i felt. I have no doubts yours will be the same. Good Luck.
Dear Marilyn,
I really appreciate you posting such a thoughtful, thorough, and honest report of your experience. You have a very nice way about you, not sugar coating it but not stressing to much either; a good reminder as I go into having my 3rd colposcopy.
My “prayers” are with you that you don’t have to deal with any of this again,
Faith
Hi everyone.
In a couple months, it will be a year since I had my first (and hopefully last) LEEP procedure.
I have never felt the same ‘down there’ since my procedure. Mostly, I feel back to normal. But sometimes, I get this nagging pressure, that is identical to the discomfort I felt immediately following the LEEP. It will be random times that I experience this discomfort, but I can definitely identify it as being pain in my cervix. It’s very low down. But again, I will always remember the very specific pressure and odd sensations I felt following the LEEP. The feelings I experience today are the same.
Does this ever go away? I feel like I am living life “pre” and “post” LEEP procedure in terms of living life comfortably.
Please let me know if any of you are still experiencing LEEP pings and pangs a substantial amount of time later.
Thank you.
Jenny
Hi Jenny,
Thanks for writing. YES. Very unfortunately yes, I experience pings and pangs throughout the whole month but especially from ovulation through the end of my cycle. It’s been 4 years since my LEEP and I think there’s actually been an increase. As I wrote in another post and as a response to KB, I am quite certain that I also have endometriosis and am pretty sure that I got it because of the scar tissue from the LEEP. Fortunately I seem to have pretty mild symptoms for endo, I am on a Facebook group for women with endo and it can be absolutely debilitating for a large part of the month.
Ugh, so sorry you are experiencing this too! Best wishes that it dissipates and all goes back to NORMAL!
Faith
Hi all:
I had a LEEP procedure administered in early September. I suffered mild symptoms (it was my second LEEP), including brown discharge, spotting, etc. I have a copper IUD so cramping and heavy bleeding are usually the norm with my periods.
However, for the past 2 months, I feel like my hormones and PMS symptoms have been out of control. My breasts grow in size and soreness at least 2.5 weeks before my period and my mood swings are insane. Before the procedure, I would experience maybe a week or 5 days of PMS, and it would subside once my period started. Now it seems as though it lasts all month long and my period gives me no relief.
My periods also are not as heavy as they used to be and don’t last as long. Many times there is still brown, scar-tissue type residue along with bleeding. I am fine with cramps and odd menstruation, but the hormonal changes in my brain and breasts are ruining my life!!
Has anyone else experienced these changes?
Thanks for sharing all your thoughts above. 🙂
Hi KB,
Thanks so much for writing and sharing. Unfortunately I can relate to what you’re talking about. My pms stuff completely changed after the LEEP. For months after the surgery I had a discomfort in my lower right abdomen and down into my thigh. While it’s luckily no longer a constant nagging, this part of my body (right ovary area) still complains many days of the month. I also have had horrible mood swings and breast tenderness for the last several years, not something I ever had to deal with before. Some months my cramps are so bad for the first 48 hours that multiple ibprophin and heat don’t provide relief.
Here’s my educated suspicion; there’s a link between scar tissue (like from a LEEP) and endometriosis. A year or two after my LEEP I had two different doctors “diagnosis” me with endometriosis (quotations because you can only confirm endo with surgery so the diagnosis was based off the symptoms I told them about). Unfortunately there is very little you can do to reverse or treat endo but it is a good case for avoiding additional surgery in that area unless it’s really, truly the best possible solution. BTW, I have found a few articles to back up this suspicion but it doesn’t seem widely recognized, than again there are a lot of unknowns about endometriosis.
Wishing you the very best health!
I am writing here hoping that someone else will also benefit from reading my story (blog coming soon). I had abnormal cells when I was about 20 and had cryosurgery (freezing of the cervix). All my paps since then were normal until a couple years ago when my pap came back abnormal. So I had the Colposcopy, which included an ECC (endocervical curettage – sp?). The results came back with ATYPICAL CELLS SUSPICIOUS for CARCINOMA. This is what I want the other ladies to hear. They were just ATYPICAL, not displasia, not CIN I, II, or III , they were atypical (i.e. not normal) cells that they couldn’t definitively call pre-cancerous or displasia. Anyway, they recommended a LEEP of course. Since I am 39, I was concerned because my husband and I had just been talking about attempting to have a child and it is recommended that you wait a year after a LEEP prior to conception. Given my age and wanting to conceive I told the DR. that I was not wanting to do this procedure right away and that I wanted to try some natural remedies (if you haven’t already, check this website http://site5301.websiteforge.com/327.html if you’re interested in curing your body naturally). Needless to say i was talked into doing the LEEP. The results from the LEEP came back and there were NO ABNORMAL cells removed in the actual LEEP biopsy, but the same atypical cells were found in the ECC test. WHAT? so they cut out a piece of my cervix only to get nothing! Since they didn’t find anything definitive they decided to send my biopsy and colposcopy results to “expert” pathologists at Stanford (because they couldn’t give me any sort of recommendation of what to do next (i.e. hysterectomy), based on suspicious cells. The “experts” determined that the atypical cells were benign METAPLASIA. In laymen’s terms this means benign changing cells. I WAS LIVID, this meant that they cut out part of my cervix because of something suspicious that they couldn’t identify. I asked the DR if they could have sent the biopsies in to the “experts” from the beginning to determine what this was, and the answer was a sheepish YES. So ladies, please push your doctor to get further analysis done if you get vague results like I did. In the end, I did not need to have a LEEP and now if I try to get pregnant it will be high risk (which it already would be due to my age, but this is double the risk). The medical community follows a protocol to cover their ass, but you have to be the advocate for your body! I wish I had read something like this when I was not sure what to do and the DR pressured me into thinking I needed to get the LEEP. The truth is even if you have some sort of pre-cancerous cells, it’s typically not going to turn in to cancer rapidly, you have time.
wishing you all good health!
Heather, thank you so much for sharing. I’m very sorry for your experience but I agree it’s really important to encourage each other to be our own best advocates and realize the limitations of western medicine (their tools are drugs and surgery, there is nothing wrong with this, thank goodness for western medicine, but it is a limited scope of “treatment”).
I personally really appreciate your writing because it helps me feel a little more confident in my choice to seek out alternatives and not rush into more LEEPS, as has been advised to me.
On another note, when I had my LEEP I was advised to wait 4 weeks before sex but then it was fine to “start trying” (I asked specifically because I’d read different recommendations about waiting 6-12 months). BTW, we “tried” for a few months and decided we weren’t ready for that yet.
Sending you love and healthy wishes!
Yes, go for the natural treatments! Western medicine is limited. If I had it all to do over I would’ve gone to a Naturopathic doctor that specializes in women’s GYN first and only had the LEEP as a last resort. The body has an amazing ability to heal itself if we keep it healthy and seek the right (natural) treatments. Cutting things off does not guarantee that it won’t come back anyway. This is virus that your body will have forever, but if you keep your body healthy it should keep the virus in check (my health was compromised at the time the virus reared it’s ugly head the second time). I’ve found a lot of great eastern medicine practitioners such as acupuncturists, naturopaths, and kinesiologists. In fact, they are the only practitioners that have helped me at all in my journey to better health (I was sick with migraines and vertigo for a while). Thanks again for having this blog for others to find answers!
Thank you all for sharing!
Reading all your thoughts, experiences and after effects has helped me see that I’m not losing my mind or over exaggerating my pain!
LEEP was done 3 days ago! First two days were A-ok! Then PAIN knocked me off my feet!
Thank you to everyone who shared their story. I had a LEEP procedure done about 10 days ago. My doctor described it as “no big deal”, akin to a slightly more intense pap smear. Thankfully, he decided I would be more comfortable having the procedure done in the hospital under sedation rather than in his office. He told me not to drive the day of the procedure due to the sedation, but that otherwise I could immediately resume normal activities (other than sex). I started bleeding yesterday, and was concerned because it had been more than a week since the procedure. Like many others here, I’ve had cramping, lower back pain, a constant feeling of pressure/discomfort and needing to use the bathroom. I’ve also been having daily migraines and in general just don’t feel well. I trusted this doctor (he delivered my first child 30 years ago, so we have a long-term relationship), but I really feel as though he minimized this and did not adequately prepare me for what was to come. In fact, he told me that women generally did not report any pain from this procedure. I’ll be seeing him for my follow-up appointment later this week, and fully intend to have a frank discussion with him about this! Anyhow, it does help to know that I’m not alone, and what I’m experiencing seems to be pretty common.
All of your comments have been extremely helpful to me. I had two biopsies done in May, which were uncomfortable but tolerable. Two days ago I underwent the LEEP procedure. My doctor told me that it would be uncomfortable, however even after having a local I could still feeling a severe burning sensation and unbelievable pain. The only real side effects that I am experiencing now are bloating and mild cramping. Waiting for the lab results are also weighing heavily on my mind! Thank you to all the women who posted-reading your stories helped to ease my anxiety and I wish you all good health and happiness!!
Best of luck to you mate 🙂
Thank you to the women who posted their experiences and their good thoughts.
Continue to get checked up, eat wel, rest up and stay positive even in the hardest of time. We are daughters, wives, girlfriends, mothers, sisters and friends. We must stick together 🙂
Hello ladies,
I just had a LEEP three weeks ago. I’m not going to sugar coat it. For me, the experience felt barbaric. Yes, yes, I said it. First off I’ve been having abnormal paps since I was 18, got married at 19 and been married since now 26 yo. Doctors said it was no big deal that I had HPV, that it would most likely clear itself. Well…it didn’t. After my pregnancy (very first pregnancy) I quickly went from CNI II to CNI III, I’m six months post partum and I was taken back by the news. I had no time to research what a LEEP was when they suggested I’d get it done and being that I don’t like to procrastinate..I went ahead and did it.
Horrible experience. I cried, I was shaking, I was saying all the bad words I knew in both English and Spanish. I couldn’t believe what I was going through.
My doctor somehow knew that i wasn’t going to be able to wait the two weeks it takes to hear your results. So 3 very long days passed and she called me.
*Note: no one talks about the anxiety you get after the procedure.
I for one, have never had an anxiety attack and I have very high tolerance for pain. My face went numb, my hands tingled, and I could not feel my feet.
She gives me my results, and says I still have some abnormal cells in the middle of the cervix and I have to do it again.
Man oh man…did I cry..
So I went in today because she wanted to talk to me face to face. The doctor who performed it wasn’t there, but a familiar face came in to explain what they needed to do next.
The woman had tears in her eyes as she explained what a Top Hat. I didn’t feel much like crying until I heard my daughter laugh. I had to bring in my six month old with me to the OBGYN office because I’m a SAHM.
My doctor said “it’s not cancer, but you must come back and schedule an appointment to do the LEEP again”
I haven’t had any aches and pains from the LEEP, my husband begged me to take it easy. So I did. (I’m very active) We were intimate last night and nothing felt off. However, knowing that I’m not completely clear it may not be wise for me to continue to be intimate with my husband until my results come back clear. (To prevent risk of reinfection)
I’m sadden by all of this, but I no longer feel so alone in this. I hear successful stories and triumphs and it truly gives a woman hope. This doesn’t feel fair…I don’t even understand where HPV comes from but I hope it vanishes from our bodies once and for all. I pray we all make it and that we all spread awareness,this isn’t something that should just be “treated” this is something that needs to be stopped.
Wish me luck on my next LEEP in which I hope I’m sedated for this procedure was traumatizing to the soul and body. I do not wish to be a witness again. Not to mention there was a look of pity from one of the older nurses, a look of compassion from my doctor and a look of confidence in the one that held my hand. I do not wish to be pitied, I wish to be cured.
Hey. Johanna. Check out Dr. Nick. It works. He works with severe cases and you have a 97% chance of being cured permanently. No pain only very mild discomfort. go to drnick.net
It’s the best thing you will ever have done. I am going for my 9th and 10th escharotic treatments this next week. he has even reversed CIS and early AIS.
I has leep done in march….I’m still having pain…..4months later is this normal?
Blasian,
According to my doctors it’s not normal. I had discomfort for several months and my doc just kind of shrugged his shoulders at it, saying it was not normal and he didn’t know what was wrong. My opinion is that it’s way more common than being reported and charted.
I am so sorry that you’re experiencing this and wish you all the good health in the world.
Hugs,
Faith
I just want to thank everyone for sharing such personal stories and thank you, Faith, for starting this open discussion. I really don’t personally know anyone who’s gone through this, unless no one is talking about it. I’ve read each and every comment and so many things come to my mind– I’m so glad to hear some of you have had positive experiences and results and I’m so sad and upset, actually, to hear of such traumatic experiences, and of such insensitive and even thoughtless, condescending, non-informative doctors. I am mortified at the lack of information and the outright misinformation that is out there about treatments, recovery, HPV, EVERYthing!, and I really wish this blog, and others like it, could be required reading for every doctor who suggests or performs this procedure. My doctor was actually very informative, maybe too much so, but I don’t think she has a clear idea of what it’s like from a patient’s perspective, both the fear and anxiety before (and after!) the procedure and the physical and emotional symptoms in recovery. My story started with an abnormal pap which detected AGUS cells (origin still not known), biopsy which detected HPV/CIN 1 that the pap missed, then LEEP and D&C. As much as I trust my doctor, this recovery is not what I feel like she described. She even said afterwards, “This could have been scary.” Could have been??
I don’t know where I’d be without being able to read what you all have shared, although I’m sorry you’ve all had to go through this kind of thing too. I’m grateful that you all reached out on this site and I thank you for that. It’s been a few years since Faith’s original post; I really hope that some of you come back on and share your stories. I’m wishing you all the very best!
Hi Annie,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience and I do always appreciate hearing that I’m not alone in this nor “oversharing”.
Best, best wishes that this issue will soon become a distant memory.
Hugs,
Faith
I recently had the double leep procedure. It wasn’t to painful during the procedure itself since my doctor did numb me somewhat. It’s only been days and I’m having bad cramps and alot of discomfort. They said it could take up to 3 mths to totally heal. The first month will be the worst. But I agree with you, it was the right choice to have it done
Thanks to everyone for sharing your experiences. After a colpop showed I had CINIII, I was scheduled for a Leep procedure. About my specific situation or circumstances in general, my dr was about as forthcoming as a clam. When I resorted to asking questions, he gave me minimal answers. I am 66 and had the procedure two days ago. When it was over, he left, and I don’t remember him saying anything to me about a follow-up or calling me with test results. Yes, with each passing day, I feel more miserable, and this afternoon, anxiety (panic attacks) have reduced me to tears. Has anyone experienced periods of anxiety?
May I share something very personal? When I mentioned to the OBGYN that my research indicated many women have multiple Leep procedures, he flatly said this: “For a woman your age, we’ll just do a hysterectomy. You won’t have a miracle baby, and you don’t need your uterus anyway.” Spoken like a calloused male who has no intention of making “old” women feel valuable. I should have asked him how he would feel about losing his gonads.
AT any moment, I feel like I could lose it — become hysterical. Do I call the office about results? I am also doing an exhaustive homeopathic regimen which includes Ellagic, Indole-3-Carbinol, Gamma E, and Beta-mannan……….Thanks for letting me share my vulnerability.
I had my first leep procedure yesterday and omg I did not know what I was in store for. I stayed away from all the health and forum boards so I wouldn’t freak myself out, but the overall experience was traumatizing! The ice cold surgery room, the pain stinging needles. I cried the whole time and not necessarily because of pain but because of how uncomfortable, humiliating and bone chilling cold I felt. The nurses were amazing, they covered me with about 5 warm blankets but the fact that they put a big sheet securing me from seeing the doctor or anything going on down there was completely terrifying. I would never recommend this procedure awake, especially if you suffer from anxiety. Also, as a mother of 2 kids (one delivered without any pain meds) I can handle a lot but that was just horrible. The shots felt like knives. I hope I’m a rare case, I wouldn’t wish my experience on anyone.
I can sympathize with what you’re going through. My LEEP procedure was pretty spot on to yours. Good news is that the pain does subside after a few weeks. Crossing my fingers for a speedy recovery for you!
I’m recovering from my first LEEP 2 days ago. My doctor said I could have the procedure done in her office and that “most women tolerate the pain well.” Um no. The 2nd pap smear with the scraping left me doubled-over in such pain that evening – my doctor was just “oh wow this is very unusual.” Instead, I opted to go to the Kaiser Special Procedure Center. My entire team was female – awesome! I had 2 doctors and at least 6 nurses. I was covered in warm blankets, given all the meds necessary to “not give a damn” and it was over fast. Chillin at home recovering. Feeling like “things inside” are swollen, but nothing a glass of wine can’t fix. We’ll see how I fair the next several days/weeks. I’m a fitness coach and chomping at the bit to get back into the gym!! And my jeans. Thank goodness for baggie sweatpants!!
Hi there,
How are you feeling? The stories of the pain, bloating, anxiety etc have me feeling very scared about having this procedure.
If you’re nervous at all about the procedure, ask to be put out for it. I did, and my dr complied. It took me longer to fully get with things afterward because I was out, but l wouldn’t have it any other way.
Hi there,
I found out today that my colposcopy results were positive for the C111 HPV virus. I am 46 years old and have great health ( so I thought ) up to being diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma on March 22nd of this year. I was in kundalini yoga level one teachers training, getting ready to graduate when I received the devastating news. I just completed six months of hard core chemo therapy ( last day of treatment was Sept 15th ) I am completely free of cancer and my hair, brows, and lashes have all started to come back and now this ( cervical dysphasia issue ) My OBGYN thinks that because the chemo therapy destroys the bodies immune response; it allowed the HPV to proliferate. When she phoned me today she did not tell me that the LEEP test was also to make sure I do not have cervical cancer. The truth is that after everything I have been through, in not sure I can take much more. I have tried to stay so positive and felt like I was getting my life back and now this. After reading how hard this has been in so many of you, I now feel so much fear to go through with this procedure.
Sincerely,
Paula P
Is it possible for you to be put out durng the procedure? I requested it because I was too nervous, and they complied. I woke up when it was done and took longer for me to get with things, because of the drugs, but I woudn’t have it any other way.
Hi Paula,
First, sending you a huge virtual hug! Wow lady, my heart goes out to you big time, what a challenging year.
Given what you’ve been through lately the LEEP will probably not be “that bad”, you are operating on a different scale of physical/emotional discomfort and stress than most of us. I would be prepared to feel some pain and fear during the actual surgury (I didn’t feel extreme pain but it was pretty miserable), which I think lasted maybe 15 minutes. Afterward you may feel fine or you may be tender and crampy for a few days, either way I highly recommend that you rest (I’ve heard mixed reports on what the dr. recommendation is on this but I took some longish walks in the following days and it felt like I may have overdone it).
How long was it between a normal pap and your first abnormal?
From what I know of Kundalini you have some excellent tools in your toolbox to deal with the emotional stress of it all. I also highly recommend finding a good accupuncturist or natriopath if you are into “non-western” at all, I think that it may help you find some personal strength and empowerment in it all, not something that I’ve found western medicine to be particularly good at.
I wish you all the best!
Faith
Hi gracefulfitness
I saw your experience about your increased symptoms of PMS after LEEP and I wanted to ask you how is your health now.
I performed a LEEP in March 2016. Four months after that, characteristics symptoms of PMS started. I never had before the procedure any kind of PMS symptoms. In the last part of the last year, every month for at least 2 weeks, I have the same symptoms, and the most unconfortable are the pelvic pain and breast tenderness). Since we also tried in this period to have a baby, all these symptoms definitely changed my mood. My gynecologyst recommended me all kind of analysis (hormones), but all were fine. In conclusion, she told me that everything is in my head and I have only digestive problems. It was frustrating.
I hope only that I will find a possibility to reduce these symptoms.
Sincerely
Mary Jo
Hi Mary Jo,
Thank you for writing. You’ve reminded me that I am long overdue to write an “update” post. I am have an appointment on Wednesday that will hopefully shed some new light on my “issues” and will write after that. In the meantime, thank you for sharing and sending a virtual hug.
Faith
Hello everyone I’m new to this so don’t really know where to start but I was diagnosed with HPV 10 years ago I am now 27 and have had 2 colposcopies 2 biopsies and now a leep procedure down 2 weeks ago recovery I thought was going well but now I think I might be getting a yeast infection and when calling my doctor to see if I should be seen she decided to call something in instead and now i am nervous to take the fluconazole and the side effects are worse than the itching( which is not bad at all) my question is is this common and should I take it? I also am wandering if a hysterectomy is something to look into when I was pregnant with my son I was diagnosed with CNI1 and sent to an oncologist to be sent home because he said there was nothing to worry about after my second baby pap result was normal(never in my life have I had one) and then 1 year after I noticed a cyst on my cervix ( which dr said was nabothyin )for the pap results came back ascus 3 months later colposcopy came out precancerous and so did the biopsies of the cyst so that’s y the leep was secduled received leep results that were also high grade precancerous cells what does this mean I’m very frustrated and confused just wandering what is next I’m a non smoker eat well enough healthy and I take vitamins and just am confused about the progression at this point my dr also has stated every time she does a procedure she says how normal everything looks but then results are scary could I have something else going on not to mention the lack of intimacy my husband and I have had for the last two years he is somewhat supportive however feels that I may be having procedures done for no reason I am just reaching out for answers and help at this point thank you for taking the time to read this short novel lol but in all seriousness prayers to everyone going through this horrible type of life I know it consumes every part of mine
Hi Phillicia,
Firstly I wanted to say just keep strong, with your husband by your side it helps alot as my husband was my strong point as I cried a lot and was feeling really depress. Please note this too shall pass. I did my leep procuresure approximately 6weeks ago and my period is not yet back to normal but i do have faith as everything takes time to heal. I bleed for awhile and called my doctor he did a call in prescription for me MEDROXYPROGESTER with I was to take for 21 days but I am kinda hard headed and do not like medication so i took for 7days. My bleeding did stop that was a month ago and I am looking forward to my period…which i hope it comes. My Doctor also prescribed AUGMENTINE which is an antibiotic and he mention it may cause itching or an yeast infection so he also give me FLUCONAZOLE. I honestly didn’t take any as I didn’t wanted to get an infection. Please note I am not saying do not take your medications. What I am saying is assess yourself only you know how your body feel. Do not be frustrated as your body went through a surgery and it needs time to heal. If you are not feeling healed please do not have sexual intercourse as this can cause infection….wait you will just have to catch up..lol. I pray you have a speedy recovery and hope that I help even if it was a little. Continue eating good and do not stress too much. PS my husband also told me I did an unnecessary surgery but all in all its always good to know what is going on inside your body and if you can prevent illness do so . All the best…..You will be okay. I did some research the FLUCONAZOLE will help. keep positive and drink lots of water.
i just had the leep done Monday the 20th…. they gave me percocet for pain. the only pain im really having is in my lower back and some mild period like cramping, also from being intubated and them telling me to take deep breathes right after surgery i have a sore throat, they told me to take deep breaths and it felt like i was suffocating because of the tube still in my throat. My doc is friggin awesome and the best gyno i truly ever had.
Hello. I’m wondering if anyone can shed some light on my situation. I had a leep done in Dec 2016. I had 2 areas that showed CIN II. My margin came back clear for one area, but extended to the margin in the other. My gyno wasn’t concerned and advised that when they cauterized it, they likely got any remaining abnormal cells. I had the bleeding for 3 weeks and everything seemed ok after. I had my follow up appointment in January and was told my cervix healed perfectly. Since, I’ve had spotting every time after intercourse as well as times I may have walked longer than usual. I also start spotting 7 days roughly before my period now. I’ve gone to my gyno advising of all of this. I’ve had two pelvic ultrasounds and everything comes back perfect. She’s rechecked my cervix to see if it’s still healed and said it’s still looking good. I have pelvic pain periodically too and this spotting really upsets me. I don’t know if I need to worry or not. My gyno seems like she’s not concerned but doesn’t seem to really say what could be causing the spotting. She checked my blood work and thyroid too which came back in the normal range. Am I just still healing in ways? I go back for my followup colposcopy at the end of May which will be 5 months. I’m praying my results come back clear and the Leep was successful. But the spotting worries me a lot. Had anyone else experienced spotting /mild cramping after sex and exercise and prior to period starting- almost 4 months after leep?
Hi there,
I realise it’s now been a little while since you blogged this but I just found it on a Google search I did. I recently had LEEP procedure done and I was put to sleep whilst they did the procedure as they were concerned of me hemorrhaging. I was in alot of pain after the surgery and whilst the doctors told me I would be fine to go back to work 1 day after surgery, that was wrong!!! I ended up taking a week off work where I was still on pain killers regularly and nausea tablets. The day I went back to work I lifted the lightest of things and got horrendous cramps and had to lay on the floor in a foetal position for several minutes, my tummy swelled instantly. I am now 3 weeks after surgery and am finally starting to feel myself again. I still get cramps every now and then but it’s manageable. I am still experiencing spotting and discharge from the biopsy. My tummy continuously swells when it’s not happy about something and I have a discomfort ‘down there’ that has appeared in the last couple of days. I am hoping everything is okay and normal ..
It’s great to read about so many other women having this procedure done!
Hi Stacey,
Thank you for sharing and so sorry to hear what a challenge the surgery and recovery has been. Wishing you a full and speedy recovery at this point.
Faith
I had my LEEP done 5 years ago. For the most part my life has been normal. I do have bad PMS and never really thought it could be from my LEEP. I always thought it was from birth control. My biggest complaint is pain during sex. I married my husband right before my LEEP and he has been very patient while I healed. Although we don’t really have sex frequently now, I realize that it’s hard for me to enjoy it sometimes because my cervix hurts. I was wondering if anyone else has had this issue and if there are any solutions or suggestions. I’m willing to try anything. I used to have a great sex life but now sex is hard and it’s frustrating.
Wow, crazy to see how long this thread has gone on! Thank you everyone for being so open to share your experiences!
My LEEP was two weeks ago. I was originally told I had high-risk HPV over 10 years ago (I’m 35 now) but did not need treatment. I let my checkups “slip” (never never do this) for a few years after my mother passed of ovarian and uturen cancer (funny , you’d think it’d be the opposite) as I guess I became afraid of doctors and such. I came in two months ago for bladder pressure and pain and only to find out instead I had an abnormal pap, then onto a mass on my liver (turned out to just be a hemangioma), to severe dysplasia/CIS (it’s August , still have not found the cause of my bladder pressure). I completely understand what some of you have said about doctors just carrying on very nonchalant when they don’t recognize symptoms.
I myself still have mad lower abdominal cramps , but I’ve suspended all heavy pain meds – take into consideration what meds will give you constipation and counter that as much as possible, the last thing you want after your procedure is extreme constipation! I’ve heard some women talk about bloating but has anyone had constant bladder pressure here ?
I had a leep procedure done two days ago for cin 3. I’m still in a lot of pain with extremely sharp pain in my rectal area. Has anyone else experienced this? Passing gas is painful and this constant headache isn’t pretty either. Looking forward to brighter, pain free days.
Hello all. I received dx of cn111 and dr took a few biopsies to test said if noncancerous that I would be having leep surgery. I have been a blubbering mess. Anyone else feel anxious or depressed. I’m 29 been trying for a year to have second child went to obgyn to see if something was wrong. My first one I got pregnant in birth control now I can’t gwt pregnat. She says it’s unrelated. How many days shoild I be off work?
Did anyone Else feel anxious or sad
My husband doesnt know what to say so he doesn’t say anything which makes me feel alone
Maybe they would have support groups or more info on what to expect
I just did a leep procedure. 2 days ago. It was very painful the doctor was very gentle and thoughful during procedure. The hardest part was the actual leep it self smelling my flesh burning wasn’t quite digestible. I too had abnormal cell on my pap, HSIL so a colposcopy and LEEP was recommended. I am hoping for the best result. I am a bit cramp not much bleeding. The cramp is mostly on my right lower pelvic area down to my butt and leg this pain come and go. I then to be emotional for no reason and my breast nipple are very tender. I period is due in a couple of day so maybe that’s what’s causing some of the symptoms. I am noticing a pain in my back on the left side in my shoulder blade. I don’t know if anyone experienced any of these symptoms my foot feel funny at times too.
Hi, I’m Andrea I’m 29. I had LEEP Procedure on November 28, 2017 — The results came back wonderful no cancer thank GOD! I am having a bit of sharp pain still sometimes on left or right side sometimes lower belly.. I’ve also had a Hysteroscopy & Laproscopy done October 17, 2017 — I don’t think but, I am not sure If I am getting any pains because, of the first surgery also as well, as the first ever surgery of my life! Thank You everyone that has written on here it definitely helps. I’m so happy to all of the people like myself who have had good outcome with it & I am so sorry & feel bad & terrible for all of those on here that didn’t & I wish anyone who reads this the best whether or not you have had it done or not yet. After the LEEP Procedure I did get Bladder Infection as well, as Yeast Infection — I was prescribed FLUCONAZOLE for Yeast Infection! I was prescribed PYRIDIUM & BACTRIM DS for the Bladder Infection those 2 mixed were so, very uncomfortable & I’ve never ever had a Yeast Infection ever in my life and as for the Bladder Infection I haven’t had 1 of those in years until after the fact of this procedure. I do feel bloated all the time. I see my doctor on the 12th of January 2018. As for my follow up as I mentioned at the beginning finding out my results my follow up appt. was Dec. 8th.. Sending Blessings & Wishes for Good Health to All!!
By the way to the people out their who wondered why I had a Laproscopy & Hysteroscopy it was to have something from ovaries cut initially at the tip because, had no blood flow for past babies to survive. Then it turned to my right fallopian tube was blocked so, I had to get it unblocked. I thank GOD, I am done & don’t have to go through any more surgeries after that LEEP Procedure. Now, I am just praying to GOD & Hoping for the best that me & my husband of 11 years almost 12 can finally have a healthy child together. I’ve read some great things after the LEEP people have had no issues of having children & others I have seen the most horrible & terrifying things. I want 1 miracle in my life. I’m still young & I’ve always wanted a baby. There are some people in this world that would die to be able to have just 1 miracle child while other people out here in the world have children like some of my cousins for instance who can’t take care of their children either that or others that have lost them or are abusive! I sit and always think to myself it’s not fair at all. To any ladies who feel like me & understand how I feel I hope your dream comes true & that you will have that miracle baby just as much as I do & deserve it! Just keep the faith & it will by the grace of GOD happen. There is still a lot of great wonderful mothers out here in this world. –Andrea–
Hi All!
First off, I want to say, I think it’s so wonderful people are sharing their experiences. I had a cold knife cone biopsy (went under) done 4 weeks ago, carcinoma insitu with clear margins. I have had lingering lower back pain and a ton of bloating/swelling since (I’ll get to that more in a second). My recovery the first week was INTENSE. Wasn’t at all what I had been prepared for. I think every body responds to this type of “surgical trauma” differently. But it seems its common for doctors to underplay the recovery experience.
I wanted to throw a few things out there:
1. I am realizing most people do not post positive recovery experiences as much as people post the negative from simple deduction that when people have a positive experience…they often don’t go on boards looking for support or answers 🙂 That being said, I just want to encourage those who have just been notified of needing this procedure or the in clinic Leep to keep positive, while also staying tuned in to what your body is telling you. I know for me personally, it’s easy to freak out about “what’s to come”. I’ve been trying to find a healthy balance between listening to my body and also giving my body space/time to heal. I feel like my body heals faster when I kinda of let it do its thing and don’t obsess about it (easier said than done, but I am trying to let go more during the healing process). Of course, I don’t mean ignoring obvious signs that something’s off…
2. One of the things I’m trying VERY HARD not to obsess about 😉 — I have had so much swelling/”bloating” since my procedure. Can’t fit in my pants. Feel like I’ve gained 10 lbs overnight but only in my lower abdomen. Here’s my question… I’m not certain if this is bloating. It feels very different than my normal period bloat… my stomach feels hard and the bloating is only in this area. I feel that it’s more swelling from having a large amount of tissue removed…almost like inflammation? Does anyone else feel like this? Since it’s in such a delicate/sensitive area ?
3. My friend had an office Leep procedure done years ago and had a good experience, and hasn’t had an abnormal pap since. Just wanted to share some good news!
Be well everyone and hope you all find some sources of comfort during this stressful time.
x
Hi Evan,
I’m having similar bloating/ swelling three weeks post op. I was wondering if you found out any more information about the inflammation connection and how you’re doing now?
Many Thanks,
Kristen
Hi Kristen,
I ended up having an infection! But here’s the kicker, all the tests my doctor gave me (blood, swab test and urine) came back negative for infection. I asked for antibiotics anyway, trusting myself, even though my doctor was very reluctant to give them. By the second dose of antibiotic on day 1 of taking them, something lifted and I felt a HUGE palpable shift in my lower abdomen. It was CRAZY. All of my pain and bloating started to decrease slowly after that. All in all my total “back to self” feeling took about 5 months total to be honest. And still my periods have been very different since. I don’t say this to freak anyone out, everyone’s recovery time will be different. When I went back for check up about 2 months after surgery, the site had healed perfectly according to my doctor, he said it was as though no surgery took place. But my body hadn’t adjusted. Also, I find it frustrating that doctors say this doesn’t affect hormones. I don’t see how it could not, as the cervix is a hormone receptor it would make sense that trauma to this area would impact uptake of hormones and the balance overall, especially if you’re hormone sensitive which I very much am.
Hope you are feeling good !
Hello just had leep done last friday not many complications but very embarrassed by the smell. Does anyone know how long the odor last?
About 15 yrs ago I had pre-cancerous cells on my cervix after having my first child. No HPV so idk where this came from. I had a biopsi and that was a bit painful. I then had a freezing done, the cervical cryotherapy . That was a bit more painful and I had a lot of discharge for about a month. That did not take all the cells away. I had another freezing done on my month checkup and I was not expecting it. That was more painful and I had issues with the pain for months. Jumping 15 yrs to the present and 2 children later I get another abnormal pap and 3 large polyps. This is scary! I went in and had one polyps removed and a couple other chunks taken out to biopsi. We make a plan to do the LEEP due to the previous 2 cryotherapies. Everything came back banine thank goodness, but still needing the LEEP. The Dr was very good about making sure I was comfortable but I ended up in thise stirrups for about an hr and a half. I felt him ripping off the polyps and then he took a lot of tissue and went quite deep. I bled a lot! He was panicking and he almost had to call an ambulance to take me to the hospital. It got very painful and I almost jumped off the table. He gave me for numbing meds so he was able to cauterize my cervix. That was a smell of burnt flesh and I could see smoke coming up from my vagina. After I left the Dr I did not have bleeding but did have pain. I went to work the next morning just to leave 2 hrs later because I was throwing up and in a lot of pain. Stayed home for one more day and then I felt fine and was able to go to the gym on day 4. I did have gritty black discharge and hen some clear super smelly discharge. Today is day 5 and shoveled the snow off my walkways and started to bleed a little. I now have a ton of pressure in my uterus area and spotting and some sharp pinching like pains in the cervix area. I sure hope this discomfort goes away soon.
I had a bad colpo experience but thankfully not that bad….But that idiot doctor said he would do a little cryosurgery, which I figured hurt more than they tell you. NO THANKS! I knew better than to allow liquid nitrogen anywhere near my cervix. but thanks to that rather bad colpo experience….Well all the idiot stuff he was saying to me…I asked why he did not do laser….I did not even know about LEEP. like he so misinformed me…..but I am smarter than that thanks to my degree in applied microbiology…..I had worked with lasers and ultra sonic frequency generators….LED’s also. So…when the dysplasia did get worse….I had to end up at Nick LeRoys. I even told that stupid doctor back in 2012 that I was having fertility issues….they wouldn’t even do an ultrasound….that was my litmus test for them….pathetic. the next doctor was not much better….and butchered a friend of mine nicely….so I am no longer made of money…new patient fees. Sure needed that colpo, and at least one by 45 days after the 6th eshcarotic treatment. Lady doctor….the butcher…..other people have complained about her for many other things to, she did not even care that my LSIL went on that long. Did clear the viruses though. Stayed normal on my pap smears for 13 months though.No unprotected sex. Way to go…..wished I could have got the Dr. Nick LeRoy eshcarotics in the LEEP wounds. That sounds good. And his suppositories are phenomenal. It got rid of all the pain and spotting. the discharge was pretty much clearing due to vigilant cold lasering and massive suppository packing nightly for six months. Mild bloating but otherwise a deep warm tingling and instant relief. phew….I’ll share the exact colpo experience later……at least it was not as bad as that very poor technique . There are viruses HPVs ( HPV 26) they don’t test for. oh well. Sorry to hear about the poor quality experience.
Colposcopy was not bad but major cramping next day then totally fine.
LEEP on the other hand was excruciating for me. I felt each of 4 needles like quick sharp lightning strikes deep inside. THEN no tugging or scraping at all BUT occasionally a searing pain so intense would shoot thru me & a sudden slpit second scream was ripped out of me. A few times tears rolled down my cheeks uncontrollably (not from stress b/c I took 3 Xanax & 800 mg Advil before procedure as instructed) it was pure unexpected pain that caused me to yell out those times. The OBGYN was skilled and very knowledgeable. She was kind and understanding. There were a few spots that weren’t as numb and THAT’S why I screamed those times difficult to reach locations) but I implored, “Get rid of it. I want it gone!” So she did her best. Yes, there was also a burning smell but honestly I could care less. I trusted my doctor. I could tell she knew exactly what she was doing. I also had a spot that she needed to hold pressure to stop the bleeding b/c she didn’t want me to end up in ER overnight. LEEP took about 40 minutes. I left her office almost immediately.
(12 hours ago) I’ve had no bloody discharge at all. Just cramping. Some fleeting sharp shooting pains in pelvis. And a feeling like I need to urinate but even tho I’m drinking a lot of water my pee stream seems weak. (at first I couldn’t even feel myself urinating in the toilet it was so weird) I think it must be because my muscles were so tense. Anyway it was a rough day. I’m glad it’s over. Hope tomorrow I feel better.
My advice is find an OBGYN who u r confident in. (preferably a woman too) Ask her questions! I jotted down a quick list the day before and brought it with me. The doctor answered them right before we got started. THAT helped me feel more at ease. The incredible painful moments DIDN’T increase my anxiety after that. So make a list the night before your LEEP & have it with u to go over with your doctor before u put your feet up in those stirrups. 😉 Be brave. Take care of yourself . *hug*
I figured I would post my recent experience in case anyone is googling the leep procedure like I was. I’ve had an abnormal pap for 5 years. The first time, I was 30 and the Dr recommended freezing the abnormal cells. I didn’t do the procedure, ignored it and moved on. In hindsight I should’ve done it or been more proactive and try some natural remedies. At 32 had another pap, different Dr but abnormal again. This time they said it was severe dysplasia I don’t even remember which level but I think it was probably a CIN II and the Dr was very persistent that I needed to do the Leep Procedure right away. I had a bad colpo experience with this Dr, so I knew there was no way I would let him do my Leep. I received other news at this time (premature ovarian failure, with no children to date) that I could not think about my abnormal cells so I put it off. Now at 35, went for another pap, different Dr, abnormal again. I liked this Dr so when he told me he recommended the Leep procedure since I had severe dysplasia CIN II-III and I scheduled the Leep. I had it done yesterday, 11/29/18 and it was quick painless 10 min procedure. I was under general anesthesia, so yes I didn’t feel a thing. Went home, no pain meds needed. No pain whatsoever. Went to work the next day since I’m in no pain, no discharge or bleeding. I have to go back in two weeks and I hope they got all the abnormal cells. I was so scared by all the negative experiences in the internet that I almost put it off again. Don’t let that stop you. It is much better than the alternative, Cancer. Now I only pray that I have good results and didn’t wait too long for a procedure that was sooo minor.
Well my colpo was not that bad . My cervix was fine. The colpo honestly would have been better if the doc haf put numb creme farther down and gone gentle with the first needke. Mu problem was what Dr. Nick LeRoy predicted. Polyps or a polyp that came back. It was glued on the inside of my cervix.But was endometrial. Not Endocervical endometrial which is bad. So I had asked 3 yrs ago to plz do a hysteroscopy. You should be able to do one with a paracervical block. Didn’t know that. Thanks to YouTube not working But my doc never informed me .just said the same thing 3 yrs ago. That it requires anesthesia. What she meant was conscious sedation. But it was not moderate like it is supposed to be. The nurse anestitist slammed me into very DEEP sedation. That crap slamming into my vein hurt worse than the level 5 cramping that barely hit a 6 for only 5 minutes after I awoke from deep sedation polypectomy. 1 hr and 15 mins after the 10-15 minute surgery was done.She said it was a simple snip and grab. Then she told me in tbe follow up she used an endometrial catheter tip the eyelet to go up under the root system area where the stem or stems for that kind of polyp can regrow from. That instant deep sedation I did not actually consent to. Honestly it only ached on the front. Nothing in low back at all!!! My low back and sciatica with the impoper paracervical block hurt worse with colpo. Also on YouTube watch Sarahlovespeter (two bulbous polyps the scraper kind) Mama Yom (6 tissue chunks after a flapper polyp just inside cervix , similar to mine but smaller ) They were awake and poor Sara the doc just did it fast as part of the diagnostic turned operative hysteroscopy.She was heavy moaning level pain. Travis W.McCoy. polypectomy is the one you need to watch. That was not as easy as he thought it would be. I can sense how much it might have hurt for mine but the paracervical block when left in 30 minutes is amazing, I was number gor the second hole punch and the ECC was only a twinge but that is when the numbing shots must have been all the way through. I guess the uneven numbing thing is why as well as her LARGE outdated hysteroscopy equipment making cramping and getting poked and bumped from the inside truly painful .Check out the new LiNA hysteroscopy handheld. The bad side effects of the propofol, Fentanyl, Versed was horrible. LOST several inches in 48 hours. So at leadt it got my fake pregnancy and bad other hormones gone. Chin hair gone. Acne gone. Mustache very slow weeks instead of days. Down to 34 yr old dress size. But other hand eye dizzy not walking properly hallucinating that wss not needed as well as nasuea …and made sure to leave the Torodol out bcuz that I have heart pounding and excruciating stomach gut pain from when that was used with deeply impacted wisdom teeth long time back. Still negative for all HPV. Bleeding was not enough to sneeze at.will have to give whole story of prep and position myself on table…that was scary… .many reasons….some other forum. Thankfully wasn’t worse. And helped bad cramps, clots bloat and inability to get the hip to abs deeper muscles to fully retract…constant pee or poop twinge sensation was gone to.
I had a LEEP Cone done 9 days ago. What lead up to it is on April 15 I started spotting and it continued for about 14 days thinking nothing of it because I got off the depo shot July prior to try and conceive (I was told it would take a year or more to become fertile)with my now fiance. On April 28 I passed a 10 week old fetus intact I took pictures. Eversince I got off the shot my periods have varied between a 40-50 day cycle. So I wasn’t unreasonably late. Looking back i had symptoms and the dates added up. I went to the gyno as soon as she could fit me in she scheduled a D & C and did a pap. She called me back saying i had CIN IIII cells and they were going to do a LEEP when they did the D&C. I said that’s not possible because I had a Culpo a *year to the date* prior they removed the one little spot they saw the other areas biopsied came back normal, 6 month pap came back normal. I’ve only been with my Fiance during this whole time. So I had the leep done on May 30th hoping I would be healed by our wedding June 28th. The experience has been horrible. After I woke up from general anesthesia I kept saying it feels like she cut me I had a horrible burning cut sensation from the beginning. Cramping the first day which I expected, continued discharge I expected but the horrible burning cut feeling hasn’t gone away and the cramping has persisted daily. I inspected my self yesterday and sure enough when I spread for the inspection I can clearly see what looks like a large lazer burn going inwards as far as I can see beginning about a centimeter in from my opening. I’m unsure if this is normal. From day one I’ve had to sit on ice from this pain and now I know why. It’s Saturday I’m calling my doctor on Monday. Im super upset. Im getting married in 2 weeks and have no idea when we can start trying to conceive. Please tell me if lazer burns on the vaginal walls are normal.
I had the LEEP done about 3 weeks ago and I have so much pain in my legs and hips and groin. Idk what to do. I’m always in pain
Keisandra-I am so sorry to hear you’re going through this. Wishing you a swift and full recovery!