The day before your colonoscopy, you will be asked to refrain from solid foods and consume only clear liquids. You will also need to fast from the night before. A laxative or enema kit will be given to empty or clear your colon so that the colonoscope can capture a clear and unobstructed view of your colon and rectum.
You will be sedated for the procedure and be asked to lie on your side before the doctor inserts a colonoscope into your rectum. The scope contains a small light and camera, and a tube to pump small amounts of air or carbon dioxide to inflate the colon to give provide a better view.
A colonoscopy is considered to be a safe procedure and risks such as adverse reaction to the sedative, bleeding from the biopsy site or perforation of the colon or rectum wall are rare.
For more information on preparing your bowels before a colonoscopy, download our ‘Preparing for a Gastroscopy / Colonoscopy’ brochure.