Should Women Shave Before a Colonoscopy? Tips and Advice

Shaving Before a Colonoscopy: What Women Should Know

When your doctor recommends getting a colonoscopy, one question that may come up is whether you need to shave the hair around your anus or genitals beforehand. While grooming beforehand is not medically necessary, some women prefer to tidy up the area prior to this test.

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a routine screening test used to examine the entire length of the colon and rectum. Reasons your doctor may recommend this test include:

• Screening for colorectal cancer
• Evaluating digestive symptoms like chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Checking for causes of rectal bleeding
• Monitoring inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohns or ulcerative colitis
• Following up on abnormal imaging tests like a CT scan

During a colonoscopy a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end is inserted into the rectum. This allows the doctor to visually inspect the lining of the colon and rectum while looking for any polyps, tumors, inflammation, or other abnormalities.

Does Hair Need to be Shaved Beforehand?

Shaving before a colonoscopy is not required for the procedure. The rectum and anus are interior body cavities, so exterior body hair does not interfere with the scope being inserted or obstruct the doctors view. Doctors are focused on examining the colon tissue itself, not the hair around your genitals.

However, some women still prefer to do some manicuring beforehand for personal comfort and feelings of cleanliness. It is completely up to your personal preference whether you choose to shave or trim hair around the anus prior to this procedure.

Should I Shave Before My Colonoscopy?

Here are some pros and cons of shaving before a colonoscopy to help you decide what feels right for you:

Potential benefits of shaving beforehand:

• Increased comfort and confidence going into the procedure
• Feeling clean and well-groomed for a medical exam
• Easier passage for inserting the lubricated scope without strands of hair
• Better visualization for the doctor if hair is removed
• Preventing any tangled hair from catching on the scope

Reasons shaving may not be necessary:

• The rectum is an interior space - exterior hair doesn't get in the way
• Doctors focus on the colon tissue itself, not the area around it
• May increase risk of razor bumps, rash, or skin irritation
• Hair removal risks nicks, cuts or infection near the anus
• Can increase chances of ingrown hairs becoming inflamed or infected

There are reasonable pros and cons on both sides. In the end, it is your personal preference whether you choose to shave. Do what makes you most comfortable.

Shaving Tips Before a Colonoscopy

If you opt to shave before your colonoscopy, here are some tips to help avoid complications:

• Do a trial shave well in advance to watch for reactions
• Shave at least 2-3 days prior so any irritation calms down
• Trim hair first with scissors or electric trimmer to avoid razor pull
• Use a fresh, sterile disposable razor each time
• Apply a soothing shave gel, foam or cream
• Shave gently with the grain of hair growth
• Moisturize after to prevent itching and ingrown hairs
• Avoid shaving directly over moles or skin tags to prevent cutting them

Proper shaving technique and allowing time for the skin to recover before your appointment can help prevent problems. For most women, a quick tidy of the bikini line is sufficient prior to this procedure.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Knowing what to expect during the colonoscopy can help you feel at ease:

• You'll change into a hospital gown in a private room.
• An IV is started to administer sedation medication.
• Lying on your side, the doctor gently inserts a lubricated scope into the anus.
• You'll feel some pressure and cramping as the scope passes through.
• The doctor carefully examines the full length of the colon, looking for any abnormalities.
• Small instruments can pass through the scope to take biopsies or remove polyps.
• The procedure usually takes 20-30 minutes.
• You wake up in recovery once medication wears off.

Let your doctor know if you have any concerns or questions ahead of time so you feel prepared.

Does Pubic Hair Need to be Shaved?

Shaving the pubic hair on your mons pubis or outer labia is not necessary for a colonoscopy. This area is outside the rectum and will not interfere with the procedure. The scope only enters a few inches into the anus to access the interior colon.

Whether to trim or shave the pubic hair above your genitals comes down to your personal grooming preferences. Some women like to tidy up this area as part of their pre-procedure pampering routine. It will not affect the colonoscopy itself in any way.

Are Enemas Needed Beforehand?

Your doctor will provide detailed instructions on how to thoroughly cleanse your colon prior to the procedure. This preparation will involve:

• Following a liquid diet for 1-2 days beforehand.
• Drinking a prescription bowel prep solution to flush out stool.
• Fasting after midnight before the colonoscopy.
• Sometimes enemas are recommended the morning of the procedure.

Emptying and cleaning out the colon enables clear visibility for identifying any polyps or other abnormalities during the scope exam. Follow your doctor's prep instructions closely for the best results.

Are There Risks to Shaving Beforehand?

Potential risks of shaving around the anus prior to a colonoscopy include:

• Skin irritation, red bumps, or rash caused by shaving
• Ingrown hairs becoming red, itchy and infected
• Cuts, nicks or scratches that can allow bacteria into the body
• Folliculitis bacterial skin infections around hair follicles

These complications are less likely if you groom gently, avoid tight clothing afterward, use clean tools, and allow time for skin to heal before the exam. Consider just a conservative trim to minimize risks.

What to Wear for Your Appointment

Choose comfortable clothing to wear to your colonoscopy appointment:

• Loose, elastic waist pants or shorts
• Flowy top or button-down shirt
• Socks to keep your feet warm
• Underwear you don't mind being soiled during preparation
• A pad or panty liner to protect against leaks

You will change into a hospital gown once at the facility. Wear easy, non-restrictive clothing you can quickly disrobe. Leaving jewelry and valuables at home is also a good idea.

Recovery and Aftercare

After your colonoscopy:

Rest in the recovery area until sedation wears off

You'll be groggy - bring someone to drive you home

Bloating and gas are normal - pass this through activity and fluids

Eat gentle foods - broth, yogurt, applesauce, toast

Drink lots of water to rehydrate

Avoid driving, alcohol, and big decisions for 24 hours

Take it easy the rest of the day

Resume normal activities the day after the procedure. Call your doctor with any worrisome symptoms like heavy bleeding, fever, or severe pain.

Does Insurance Cover Colonoscopies?

The Affordable Care Act requires all health insurance plans to cover preventive colorectal cancer screening starting at age 50. Many plans also cover earlier screening for high-risk groups. This means your colonoscopy should be fully covered if you meet the criteria, but policies vary. Contact your insurance provider or check your benefits information to confirm coverage details for this procedure.

Appointment Reminders

To ensure your colonoscopy goes smoothly:

• Follow all preparation instructions closely.
• Bring someone to drive you home after.
• Remember insurance and pharmacy cards.
• Have a list of medications and questions ready.
• Fill any prescriptions for the bowel preparation ahead of time.
• Stop eating seeds, nuts, hulls, greens for a week prior.
• Keep well hydrated before and after the procedure.

Let your doctor know if you have any concerns ahead of time. They want you to feel informed and as comfortable as possible throughout the process.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.