If you’re feeling anxious about preparing for a colonoscopy, you’re not alone. Many people dread the bowel prep more than the procedure itself, but the good news is that it’s not as bad as you might think.
While colonoscopy prep has a reputation for being unpleasant, advancements in preparation methods have made the process much easier to tolerate. Plus, a clean colon is a key part of detecting and preventing serious conditions like colorectal cancer.
Below, our two board-certified gastroenterologists at Las Vegas Gastroenterology — Noel Fajardo, MD, and Filippo Cremonini, MD — explain why colonoscopy prep is so important and provide tips to make your prep more comfortable.
The goal of bowel prep is to clear your colon so we can get a clear, unobstructed view. When your bowels are emptied and prepped for the procedure, we can better detect polyps, inflammation, and other abnormalities.
Incomplete prep can lead to missed findings or even the need to repeat the procedure.
Preparation typically includes:
There are several different colonoscopy kits and types of laxatives. You’ll receive your specific guidelines from our team.
In the past, bowel prep required drinking a large volume (about four liters) of unpleasant-tasting liquid. Today, there are low-volume options and split-dose preparations that make the process more tolerable.
A low-volume option means that you only have to drink 2-3 liters. A split-dose bowel prep involves drinking half of the cleansing solution the night before your colonoscopy and the other half several hours before your procedure.
Many people find that drinking the solution in smaller amounts over time, rather than all at once, helps reduce discomfort.
Here are a few tips to make the prep more comfortable:
A few days before your prep, eat low-fiber foods like white rice, eggs, and yogurt to make the process smoother.
Chilling the prep liquid, using a straw, or following each sip with a clear liquid chaser can also improve the experience.
Drink plenty of clear fluids like water, broth, and electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration. Avoid any gelatin or drinks with red or purple dye, but yellow gelatin is fine.
Frequent trips to the bathroom can cause irritation, so have gentle wipes and a barrier cream on hand.
Watch a movie, read, or listen to music to distract yourself while you go through the prep.
After completing the prep, the hardest part is over. The colonoscopy itself is quick — typically 30 minutes or less — and you’re under sedation, so you won’t feel a thing. You need someone to drive you home, but recovery is minimal.
While bowel prep isn’t anyone’s favorite activity, it’s a small inconvenience for a potentially lifesaving procedure. Colonoscopies detect and prevent colorectal cancer (by removing polyps that could turn cancerous later), which makes them one of the most effective screening tools available.
Colonoscopy screenings prevent an estimated 50 colorectal cancer cases for every 100, 000 people screened. This corresponds to a 30% reduction in colon cancer.
Focus on these facts as you go through your bowel prep. Focusing on the “why” can make the inconvenience seem not so bad. The bottom line is that colonoscopy prep is worth it in the long run.
If you're due for a colonoscopy, don’t let fear hold you back. Our team is here to guide you through the process. To get started, call our nearest Las Vegas, Nevada, location or use our online portal to request your appointment.
