Moderate Dysplasia & LEEP question

[redneckpast.livejournal.com]

I was diagnosed with CIN2 in August, after an abnormal pap that showed LSIL. The doctor that diagnosed me (through Planned Parenthood) said the best course of action was "wait and see" This means follow up pap and colposcopy six months from diagnosis, then another in six more months. I thought this was quite strange for moderate dysplasia, since it has more potential to progress. Anyone else had this experience?

A LEEP was not recommended because I am under 25 (I'm 23) and it may affect fertility. According to the doctor some doctors will not preform this on me because of my age. I honestly would prefer to have a LEEP, and just get things taken care of. From what I have read, the risks to my fertilty is not that great. I wouldn't be comfortable having it done until the summer anyway since I am a full-time, first-time university student. Dealing with recovery while having to work and attend school does not sound like fun. So in a way I am playing the waiting and seeing game, anyway.

My other question is this: what does the cost of a LEEP run? I am without insurance, and Planned Parenthood does not offer this service. I know it will vary regionally, and from doctor to doctor. I guess I would just like to get a ballpark estimate from those who have had it done. I know I can probably work out a payment plan, or put it on a credit card (bad idea, sure, but if it gets my cervix in the clear...) I live in Iowa, if that means anything to anyone.

Thank you! (x-posted to hpv

Comments

[jennifer0246.livejournal.com]

There is maybe not so much a risk to fertility with one LEEP, but what if you need another at age 30? There is significant risk of cervical incompetence with multiple LEEPs.

In my opinion, if you have a provider who is recommending you do extensive short term followup vs having an invasive procedure, I'd send your doc some cookies and schedule the followup.

[redneckpast.livejournal.com]

Oh, don't worry, I never had a second thought about the follow up!

[atalanta0jess.livejournal.com]

Agreed! I <3 doctors who avoid procedures. :)

[redneckpast.livejournal.com]

I'm just paranoid that I'm going to be that percentage for whom this progresses. If it were CIN1 I wouldn't be worried.

[atalanta0jess.livejournal.com]

I understand, and ultimately that is your decision to make. If it does progress though, it'll do so slowly enough that you can catch it and take care of it before it turns cancerous.

Personally, I'd be more concerned about the potential damage to my cervix, but I'm also really really attached to the idea of carrying a child and having a vaginal birth, so that's my bias. :)

[niki28.livejournal.com]

I've had two and my docs are more concerned with cervical stenosis (where the cervix has difficulty dialating) than incompetance.