Flexible sigmoidoscopy

Need to know

• How to prepare for a sigmoidoscopy icon plus

  Let your consultant know if you're taking any medication. Like all procedures, there might be some risks and side effects. Your consultant will discuss these with you.
  
  You will usually be asked not to eat on the day before your examination. We will explain which liquids you can drink.  
  
  Before your sigmoidoscopy, you may be asked to take a liquid bowel preparation, this a laxative that you drink, you may also need to follow a special diet for a couple of days beforehand.
  
  Alternatively you may have an enema - which might be sent to you to do at home or you may have it when you get to the hospital.

• During a sigmoidoscopy icon plus

  The endoscopy team and consultant will talk you through the procedure and you will have time to ask any questions.
  
  You will need to change into a gown for the procedure.
  
  You'll lie on a bed on your left side, with your knees tucked up to your chest.
  
  The procedure may be uncomfortable for some people and pain relief will be available should this be the case. Your consultant and the endoscopy team will be with you throughout and should you experience any pain the procedure will be paused. 

  During a sigmoidoscopy, photographs are taken of your bowel lining. If your consultant identifies any abnormal areas they will take tissue samples (biopsies). If you have any growths in the bowel lining (polyps), they can remove these during the procedure with a wire loop they put down the colonoscope. Any samples taken will be sent to a laboratory to be checked by a pathologist.

• After your procedure icon plus

  After your examination you should arrange for someone to drive you home. You should be able to leave the hospital on the same day of your procedure.
  
  You might experience bloating or cramps in your abdomen for about an hour after the examination but you shouldn't feel any pain. If you do experience pain, bleeding or fever, tell your consultant immediately.