Read about these five common myths about colonoscopies. If you are a candidate for the procedure, talk to your primary care doctor today to better understand the details of the screening and know what your options are.*
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1) The "prep" will be horrible
A patient's complaint about a colon screening actually has more to do with the physical preparation rather than the procedure itself. Common complaints included the amount of liquid they must consume beforehand. Although you may not be looking forward to the prep, it shouldn't be horrible. If you have difficulty drinking a lot of liquid, ask your doctor about using one of the newer lower-volume bowel cleansing options. They may make the prep easier for those who have a hard time drinking a lot of liquid at one time. Remember, there may be other options you don't know about that can make the whole process more comfortable. Keeping open communication with your doctor will help you feel better about the procedure.
2) It will hurt
No, it shouldn't. Before the procedure, patients are given some kind of a combination of narcotics and sedatives called "conscious sedation." Only a small percentage of people experience cramping, while the vast majority sleep through the entire screening. Most people don't remember the exam! But if you still have worries about the procedure itself, talk to a nurse or your doctor so that they can alleviate your fears or provide other options for you.
3) It's too embarrassing
Physicians realize that many people are uncomfortable with the idea of a colonoscopy, so they do everything they can to ensure a private, respectful, and modest experience for patients. Depending on what makes you feel most comfortable, you may choose a male or female physician to perform your colonoscopy. It is also helpful to remember that physicians perform thousands of colonoscopies each year and don't think of the colon any differently than any other organ they deal with on the job. These doctors impact a patient's life by eliminating or vastly reducing the possibility of cancer. Everyone involved in the process of administering colonoscopies takes their job seriously and wants to make you feel comfortable.
4) There could be complications
Overall, a colonoscopy is a safe test and concerns about complications aren't usually a valid reason to put it off or avoid one altogether. Studies show that the risk of complications is extremely low—about 0.28 percent. When compared to the greater risk of developing colon cancer—approximately 4 percent—during your lifetime. The screening is clearly worth your time. To keep your risks low, it is important to schedule your colonoscopy with a certified physician who is experienced with the procedure. You can use our app to find the highest quality doctors in your area so you can get the best care.
5) You don't need a colonoscopy until you have symptoms
The majority of colon cancers are found in patients who do not have any pain or other symptoms—so please don't wait to schedule your colonoscopy. Following the national recommendations for scheduling a colonoscopy helps physicians find polyps early, before they develop into cancer. Unless you experience an early onset of symptoms or have a family history of colon cancer, schedule your first colonoscopy at age 45 and then follow up with repeated procedures as directed by your doctor.
The risks of not having a colonoscopy far outweigh common concerns. Contact your primary care provider and request a referral for a colonoscopy.
