What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows your specialist to examine the inner lining of your large bowel (colon and rectum) using a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end, called a colonoscope. It is the gold-standard test for detecting and preventing bowel cancer.
During the procedure your specialist can take small tissue samples (biopsies) and remove polyps — small growths that can develop into cancer over time. Removing them is a simple, painless part of the same procedure.
Why it might be recommended
Your GP or specialist may recommend a colonoscopy to:
- Screen for bowel cancer, particularly if you're over 45 or have a family history
- Follow up a positive result from a faecal occult blood test (FOBT)
- Investigate symptoms such as bleeding, a change in bowel habit, or abdominal pain
- Monitor known conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or previous polyps
A referral is required
You'll need a current referral from your GP before booking. This lets us tailor your care and ensures you can claim your Medicare rebate.
Preparing for your colonoscopy
Good preparation is essential — the bowel must be completely empty so your specialist can see the lining clearly. You'll be given detailed, easy-to-follow instructions when you book, but in general:
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A few days before
Switch to a low-fibre diet and stop certain medications if advised. Tell us if you take blood thinners or have diabetes.
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The day before
Begin the bowel preparation drink as instructed and stay on clear fluids. Keep sipping water to stay hydrated.
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The morning of
Finish the remaining preparation, then fast as directed. Arrange for someone to take you home afterwards.
Follow the preparation exactly
If the bowel isn't fully clear the procedure may need to be repeated. Download the full preparation guide below and call us if anything is unclear.
On the day
A colonoscopy is a day procedure performed at one of our partner hospitals. You'll be cared for by a specialist anaesthetist who provides sedation, so you'll sleep comfortably and remember nothing of the procedure itself, which usually takes 20–30 minutes.
Afterwards you'll rest in recovery until the sedation wears off. Your specialist will discuss what they found before you leave, and a full report is sent to your GP.
After your procedure
- You may feel a little bloated for an hour or two — this settles quickly
- You must not drive, sign legal documents or drink alcohol for the rest of the day
- Arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you
- If biopsies were taken, results are usually available within about a week