Why might colonoscopy be recommended?
Your GP or specialist may recommend colonoscopy after considering your symptoms, medical history and previous investigations.
- A positive bowel-screening test
- Rectal bleeding or a persistent change in bowel habits
- Iron-deficiency anaemia or suspected gastrointestinal bleeding
- Previous bowel polyps or an increased family risk
- Assessment or surveillance of inflammatory bowel disease
What to expect
You will receive specific bowel-preparation and fasting instructions before the procedure. Colonoscopy is generally performed with sedation. A flexible instrument with a camera is used to examine the bowel, and biopsies or polyps may be removed when clinically appropriate.
Findings and the plan for results or follow-up will be explained to you. Preparation, medication and recovery instructions vary, so follow the advice supplied by your treating team and procedure facility.