A colonoscopy allows the doctor to view the inside of your lower digestive tract (colon and rectum). The procedure helps find the source of abdominal pain, bleeding, changes in bowel habits and cancer.
Preparation
- Your rectum and colon must be empty for the test. follow your doctor's diet and bowel prep carefully. If you don't, the test may need to be rescheduled.
- Arrange for an adult to drive you home after the procedure.
Procedure
- You lie on your left side for the procedure
- You are given sedation through an intravenous (IV) line. This will make you drowsy or completely asleep
- The rectum is lubricated and the scope is inserted
- The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes
- Air is inserted to expand your GI tract. Try to pass all the gas right after the test to prevent bloating and cramping
- After the procedure is done, you rest for a time and an adult must drive you home.