HAVING THE PROCEDURE

A colonoscopy takes between 30 minutes and an hour. You’ll be asked to lie on your side on the examining table and given sedation intravenously, which will make you feel relaxed and drowsy.

Many people have no recollection of what happens while they are sedated; sometimes others can experience abdominal cramping as the bendy colonoscope winds its way through their intestines.

The doctor will take a close look at your bowel, checking for anything that appears abnormal. They may use air to expand the bowel so they can see the walls more clearly.

A biopsy, which involves taking a small amount of tissue to be analysed in the lab, may be required. Your specialist may also remove polyps, to prevent them from growing and possibly becoming cancerous. You will spend about half an hour in a recovery room afterwards.

The specialist will come and talk to you once the sedation has worn off about their findings, and let you know if everything is clear, or if you need to make a follow-up appointment. A report will be sent to your doctor.

You are not allowed to drive for around 12 hours after the colonoscopy, so you will need to arrange a lift home. You’re also banned from operating heavy machinery. If you’ve had polyps removed you may need to refrain from exercising for a few days.

You will be issued with discharge instructions that will provide details such as any medication you may need to avoid, and complications to look out for.