Many people who are of age — or at risk for colon cancer — don’t get a colonoscopy because they dread “the prep.”

Fortunately, prepping for your colonoscopy isn’t as difficult as it once was, and these tips will help ensure a successful exam.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy — AKA the No. 1 way to detect colon cancer — is a procedure performed by a gastroenterologist that examines the intestines (colon) and rectum for signs of inflammation, cancer or other abnormalities by using a long, flexible tube with a camera.

How do I prepare for my colonoscopy?

Your doctor will give you specific dietary guidelines to help you clean your bowels before your colonoscopy. These guidelines tell you what you can and cannot eat and drink the day before your procedure.

It’s vital that you follow these instructions so that your exam goes as smoothly as possible.

If your colon isn’t clean enough, your doctor won’t be able to complete the colonoscopy, and you will have to reschedule your exam. Unfortunately, you’ll also have to restart your diet and re-prep.

What is colonoscopy prep?

Your prep will likely start a day or two before your exam. It will be a “clear-liquid” diet and a prescription drink (that works like a laxative) to help clean your bowels before the exam. In addition to the drink, you may sip other clear liquids throughout the day, including stocks and broths, Gatorade and electrolyte beverages, JELL-O and other non-red food items. Red foods may alter your exam results.

Colonoscopy prep 2.0: Preparing for your colonoscopy is more manageable now!

Prepping for a colonoscopy isn’t as cumbersome as it used to be. Now:

• There is less to drink.
  Most of the new prep drinks are half the volume of the old prep, usually totaling no more than 64 oz. Your doctor may prescribe an over-the-counter laxative to help make your bowel movements smoother.
• The flavor is more tolerable.
  Flavoring has been added to some solutions to make it easier to drink.
• Tablets are now an option.
  Tablet stool softeners and laxatives may be taken with only a little to drink.
• Prep time can be split up.
  A split-dose regimen allows you to take one portion the evening before your procedure, and a second portion the morning of. This method has been proven to decrease the intensity of bowel movements, minimize nausea and improve colon cleansing.

Prepping for a colonoscopy isn’t a “one-size-fits-all" approach. Your provider will determine the method that’s best for you based on your needs and preferences. 

What’s the key to a successful colonoscopy?

Remember: Proper preparation is the key to a successful colonoscopy.

Need a colonoscopy? Make a direct-access colonoscopy appointment.

Fast-track your colonoscopy with our direct-access scheduling line. You can schedule your exam without having to make an extra pre-exam appointment with your doctor, which saves you time and takes away some of the stress and worry.

Most people begin receiving a regular colonoscopy at age 45. Speak with your doctor to see if it’s time for yours. You may qualify for our direct-access colonoscopy.

Schedule a direct-access colonoscopy at Tanner Health.

Learn more about colon cancer and prevention at Tanner Health:
Visit tanner.org/colonoscopy to learn more about colon cancer and how a colonoscopy can help prevent it before it starts.