Colonoscopy Preparation

Overview

Colonoscopy is a 20–30 minute procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera is passed through the rectum to examine the entire large intestine. It's the gold standard for detecting and removing colon polyps before they turn into cancer, and for diagnosing causes of bleeding, chronic diarrhea, or anemia. You'll be sedated and comfortable throughout. The success of the test depends almost entirely on how well your colon is cleaned out beforehand — that's why preparation is so important.

Reasons Your Doctor Recommended It

• Screening from age 45 (or earlier with family history)
• Investigation of blood in stool or unexplained anemia
• Persistent change in bowel habits
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Surveillance after polyp removal or for IBD
• Iron deficiency without obvious cause

7 Days Before & The Day Before

• 7 days before: stop iron supplements and discuss blood thinners with your doctor
• 3 days before: avoid seeds, nuts, and high-fiber foods (popcorn, corn, sesame)
• 1 day before: clear liquids only — no solid food (water, clear apple juice, broth, plain tea, sports drinks; nothing red or purple)
• Drink the bowel-prep solution as instructed (split-dose: half the evening before, half early on the morning of the test)
• Stay close to a bathroom — bowel movements will be frequent and watery
• Drink extra clear fluids to stay hydrated and improve cleansing

On the Day & Recovery

• Stop all liquids 4 hours before your appointment time
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave jewelry at home
• Bring an adult driver — sedation prevents you from driving for 24 hours
• After the test, expect mild bloating and gas — walking helps
• Resume your normal diet as tolerated, starting with light foods
• A doctor will discuss the visual findings the same day; biopsy results take 5–10 days
• Most people feel back to normal by the next morning

When to Call Us After Your Colonoscopy

Call us right away if you notice heavy rectal bleeding (more than a few drops), severe abdominal pain not relieved by passing gas, fever above 38°C, or persistent vomiting. Mild bloating and a small amount of bleeding (especially after polyp removal) are normal in the first 24 hours.