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Fertility Glossary

LEEP / cervical excision

Removal of abnormal cervical tissue after an abnormal Pap test.

Female fertility

LEEP treats precancerous cervical changes and is important for health. Repeated or deep excisions can shorten the cervix, which is associated with a small increase in preterm birth risk, and can occasionally cause narrowing that affects embryo transfer.

Also known as: LEEP, cone biopsy, cervical conisation

Sources

  • Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) patient information

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only โ€” always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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