What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the inside of your colon, find the cause of symptoms, and remove growths (polyps) in the same visit. For most people it is a straightforward, well-tolerated procedure done under sedation.
Why your doctor may recommend it
Constipation or diarrhoea
Unexplained changes in bowel habits
Colon-cancer screening, usually from age 45 (earlier with family history)
How to prepare
Take the prescribed laxative bowel-prep exactly as directed — a fully empty bowel is essential, or the test may be rebooked
Follow the fasting instructions you are given (no solid food before your start time)
Avoid residue/colour foods beforehand: red meat, corn, seeds, carrots, and red/blue/green/purple drinks; no alcohol
Tell us about all your medicines — blood thinners and some diabetes medicines may need pausing
You will be sedated, so arrange a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you
During & after the procedure
You receive IV sedation and lie on your side while the specialist guides the camera through the colon, taking biopsies or removing polyps if needed. The exam takes about 20 minutes; plan for roughly 2 hours in total. Mild bloating afterwards is normal and settles within a couple of hours.
Do not drive for 8–10 hours after the procedure
No work, heavy tasks, or signing important documents that day
Do not restart blood thinners or aspirin until your endoscopist says so
A biopsy is routine and does NOT mean cancer is suspected
You get a written report; lab results can take up to 3 weeks
