The Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) is a common outpatient treatment used to remove abnormal cells from the cervix. The procedure uses a thin, electrically heated wire loop to precisely cut away affected tissue. The heat simultaneously cauterizes the wound bed to control immediate bleeding. This cauterization results in the formation of a protective layer over the wound, known as the eschar or scab.
Physical Appearance and Composition of the Eschar
The LEEP eschar is a thick, dark material that forms directly on the cervical wound created by the excision. Its appearance is typically dark brown, black, or sometimes resembles coffee grounds. This material is not simply a blood clot, but a protective layer necessary for the tissue underneath to regenerate properly.
The dark coloration results from tissue instantly killed by the heat of the electrosurgical device, mixed with coagulated blood. A medicated paste, often containing a ferric subsulfate solution, may also be applied immediately after the excision to ensure hemostasis. This substance heavily contributes to the dark, sometimes gray-black, appearance of the discharge, and its gradual expulsion is a normal part of the recovery process.
The Normal Healing Timeline and Associated Discharge
The process of the eschar detaching and the cervix completing superficial healing usually spans a few weeks. The dark, coffee-ground-like material typically begins to shed and pass from the body one to three weeks following the LEEP procedure. This passing of the eschar can sometimes be mistaken for increased bleeding, but it is a sign that the body is progressing through the recovery cycle.
After the protective eschar detaches, a different type of discharge is common as the final stages of regeneration occur. This subsequent discharge is often clear, pale yellow, or watery, and may be slightly heavier than typical vaginal discharge. The watery consistency is due to the continued regeneration of the cervical surface cells. This lighter discharge can persist for several weeks until the cervical epithelium has fully reformed.
Recognizing Signs of Potential Complications
While most LEEP recoveries are straightforward, symptoms indicating a complication require medical attention. One significant concern is hemorrhage, which may manifest as heavy bleeding much greater than a normal menstrual period. Soaking through more than one sanitary pad in an hour for two consecutive hours is a clear signal to contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Infection is another potential complication. Signs include a discharge that is distinctly foul-smelling, often yellowish-green, and accompanied by other systemic symptoms. A fever above 100.4°F (38°C), or severe, persistent pelvic or abdominal pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter medication, should also prompt an urgent call. These symptoms suggest a serious issue beyond the scope of normal post-procedure healing.