Basic education must be given about cervical disease, treatment options, and the LEEP procedure.
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The optimal timing for the procedure is within seven days of completion of the menstrual period or at least four days in advance of next menstrual period. After cervical LEEP, there may be swelling sufficient to occlude the endocervical canal, and this can lead to hematoculpa with the need to drain the uterus. By avoiding the time of the menstrual period, there is less potential confusion regarding the origin of post-procedure bleeding, and the chance of causing an arc along a blood path is minimized. This timing also minimizes the likelihood that the patient is pregnant. Patient consent is mandatory, as every management strategy carries with it some element of risk.