What to Expect Before, During and After a Colonoscopy

Preparing for Your Colonoscopy Appointment

Getting ready for a colonoscopy can seem daunting, especially when it comes to the preparation required to clear out your colon. You may be wondering - can I wear makeup to my colonoscopy appointment?

Should You Wear Makeup to Your Colonoscopy?

The short answer is no - you should not wear makeup, including mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow, foundation, powder, lipstick, or any other cosmetic products on your face for your colonoscopy. Here's why:

• The doctors need to see your face clearly in case you have a reaction to the sedatives
• Makeup could potentially get on the scopes or other equipment
• You will be quite groggy after the procedure and won't want to worry about smeared makeup

Other Tips for Your Colonoscopy Day

Instead of makeup, focus your energy on making the prep process as easy as possible:

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that are easy to remove for the procedure
• Skip the jewelry - rings, earrings, bracelets will need to be removed
• Arrange for a ride home since you will be sedated
• Consider bringing an extra pair of underwear and feminine products if needed

Understanding the Colonoscopy Prep Process

The preparation leading up to the colonoscopy is crucial for getting good visibility of your colon. Here's what you need to know:

Why Colon Cleansing is Necessary

For the gastroenterologist to see the lining of your colon clearly, the colon must be completely free of stool. Leftover stool or debris can hide underlying issues like polyps or even colon cancer.

That's why you will need to follow a strict "bowel cleansing diet" and take strong laxatives or enemas before the test. This empties the bowels fully so the scope can pass through easily.

Timeline of the Prep Process

The preparation process usually starts 1-3 days before the scheduled procedure:

• 3 days before: Start following a low-fiber diet to reduce waste matter generated
• 2 days before: Take only clear liquids like broth, juice, or black coffee
• 1 day before: Begin the prescribed bowel cleansing medication regimen
• Procedure day: Arrive on an empty stomach per your doctor's instructions

Bowel Cleansing Medications

The specific laxatives or enemas prescribed will vary, but common options include:

• Polyethylene glycol (Miralax)
• Sodium phosphate solutions
• Magnesium citrate
• Bisacodyl tablets
• Sodium picosulfate
• Fleet enemas

Be sure to follow the dosing instructions carefully to ensure full colon cleansing.

What to Expect During the Colonoscopy Procedure

Once you arrive on the colonoscopy date, the doctor and medical team will explain each step of the process:

Getting Ready in the Procedure Room

You will change into a hospital gown, use the restroom, then lie on your side on an exam table. The nurse will start an IV line in your arm to administer sedation medication.

Let the nurse know if you have any allergies or health conditions before being sedated.

Administering Sedation Medications

To keep you comfortable, you will receive either:

• Conscious sedation: IV medications to make you sleepy, relaxed, and less aware
• General anesthesia: Complete sleep state with no awareness or pain

Most people have conscious sedation, but general anesthesia may be needed for complex cases.

The Colonoscopy Procedure

While you are sedated, the doctor will insert a flexible, lighted scope (colonoscope) in through your rectum to view your colon. Air or carbon dioxide flows through the scope so the doctor can see the colon walls better.

The procedure itself usually takes only 15-30 minutes. You will wake up once finished.

Recovering After Your Colonoscopy

Expect to feel groggy and possibly have cramps, bloating, or a sore throat after the colonoscopy due to the sedatives and from having instruments inserted in your colon. Here are some tips for recovering comfortably:

Rest and Rehydrate

Sleep off the sedation medication effects the rest of the day. Drink lots of water and clear broths to rehydrate. Avoid driving, alcohol, and operating machinery for 24 hours.

Understand the Results

Discuss preliminary results with your doctor before you go home. It can take a few days to receive the detailed lab report and colonoscopy images. Follow any instructions for prescription medications or diet.

Watch for Problems

Severe abdominal pain, bleeding, fever, or vomiting could indicate complications. Call your doctor or go to urgent care for severe symptoms.

With the right prep, the colonoscopy procedure is quite easy to tolerate. Knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety going in. Rest up after and within a week you should be back to normal.

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.