A sigmoidoscopy can cause mild discomfort. You may feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement when the tube is inserted. You may also have brief muscle spasms or lower belly pain during the test. Taking deep breaths while the tube is being inserted may help decrease any pain.
What should I expect after a sigmoidoscopy?
After a flexible sigmoidoscopy, you can expect the following: You may have cramping in your abdomen or bloating during the first hour after the procedure. You can resume regular activities right away after the procedure. You can return to a normal diet.
Do you need to prep for a sigmoidoscopy?
How do I plan for the procedure? A sigmoidoscopy requires two enemas before the procedure to clean out the lower part of the colon. If your travel time is more than 2 (two) hours, ask at the time of scheduling if you can do the prep (enemas) in the endoscopy suite.