Learn About Colonoscopy Screenings

Please note: The information on this website is provided by ColonoscopyAssist™ for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care or advice.

What happens before a colonoscopy?

To complete a successful colonoscopy, the bowel must be clean so that the physician can clearly view the colon. It is very important that you read and follow all of the instructions given to you for your bowel preparation well in advance of the procedure. Without proper preparation, the colonoscopy will not be successful and the test may have to be repeated. If you feel nauseated or vomit while taking the bowel preparation, wait 30 minutes before drinking more fluid and start with small sips of solution. Some activity (such as walking) or a few soda crackers may help decrease the nausea you are feeling. If the nausea persists, please contact your health care provider. You may experience skin irritation around the anus due to the passage of liquid stools. In order to prevent and treat skin irritation, you should: - Apply Vaseline or Desitin® ointment to the skin around the anus before drinking the bowel preparation medications; these products can be purchased at any drug store. - Wipe the skin after each bowel movement with disposable wet wipes instead of toilet paper. - Sit in a bathtub filled with warm water for 10 to 15 minutes after you finish passing a stool; after soaking, blot the skin dry with a soft cloth, apply Vaseline or Desitin ointment to the anal area, and place a cotton ball just outside your anus to absorb leaking fluid.