Specialist Surgeon | Female Health Care | Cape Town Mediclinic
Follow your bowel preparation instructions exactly. A colonoscopy can only examine the bowel lining properly if the bowel is clear and empty. If it is not, the examination may need to be repeated.
Why Does Bowel Preparation Matter?
The colonoscope examines the lining of the large bowel. Waste material left in the bowel can obscure the lining, including polyps. The bowel preparation is a strong laxative that clears the bowel before the procedure.
Where Do I Find My Instructions?
You will be given written instructions with your bowel preparation, covering the diet beforehand and how to take the preparation. Instructions differ between units and may depend on your appointment time, so follow the ones you are given, and ask well in advance if anything is unclear. Dr. Loots's patients will find the practice's instructions on the Patient Information page.
What Should I Tell the Practice Beforehand?
Some medicines need to be stopped or adjusted before a colonoscopy. Tell your doctor in advance if you:
- Have diabetes.
- Take blood-thinning medicine.
- Take long-term steroids.
- Take iron tablets.
- Use weight-loss injections.
Continue your other usual medicines unless you are told otherwise.
How Can I Make Preparation Easier?
- Read the instructions when you receive them, not on the day.
- Buy what the diet allows in advance.
- Drink plenty of clear fluids, as the instructions describe.
- Plan to stay near a toilet once you start the preparation.
- Arrange for a responsible adult to collect you after the procedure, as you will have had sedation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my bowel is not clear?
The views are limited, and the examination may need to be delayed or repeated.
Can I take my usual medicines?
Usually yes, with small sips of water, unless you have been told otherwise. Some medicines, including blood thinners and diabetes medication, need specific advice. Ask your doctor beforehand.
Why do the instructions depend on my appointment time?
The timing of the diet and the preparation is planned around the procedure. Use the instructions for your appointment.
Who do I contact with questions?
Contact the doctor or unit performing your colonoscopy, well before your appointment.
If you have been advised to have a colonoscopy, please arrange a consultation with Dr. Loots. More about the procedure is in What to Expect From a Colonoscopy.
Book a ConsultationThis article provides general information only and does not constitute medical advice. If you are concerned about your health, please seek advice from a doctor.