Bowel Cancer UK – Colonoscopy Confidence
We know some people feel anxious or worried when they’re told they need a colonoscopy but it’s important to have this test if you’re referred.
Colonoscopy is a very common procedure – thousands are carried out across the UK every week. They give endoscopists a close-up view of the inside of your bowel so they can clearly see if there’s anything wrong. A colonoscopy can feel a little uncomfortable, but it’s an important part of maintaining good all-round health.
Most people who have a colonoscopy won’t have bowel cancer. But, if bowel cancer is detected at its earliest stage nearly everybody is treated successfully.
That’s why if you have an appointment for a colonoscopy, it’s really important that you attend – let’s keep your bowel in good health.
Non-urgent advice: What’s a Colonoscopy?
If you’ve been asked by your doctor to have a colonoscopy it’s because they suspect something isn’t quite right about your bowel or colon, and they’d like a specialist to take a closer look. The procedure involves an endoscopist putting a thin flexible tube with a camera on the end up your bottom so they can see the inside of your bowel.
Our animated film below explains what a colonoscopy is and what’s involved.