While there are othercolon cancerscreening methods, it is considered the gold standard.
It is important to remember that minimally invasive does not mean non-invasive.
It can take around two to three days to have a normal bowel movement after a colonoscopy.
Verywell / Brooke Pelczynski
The time can vary from person to person.
When you do have your first bowel movement, you may notice a bit of blood.
This is likely normal and not a cause for concern.
Once you are cleared to leave, you must follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
This includes having someone drive you home.
You will not be allowed to drive yourself or leave if no one is there to take you home.
Some bleeding after you have had polyps removed is normal.
There may or may not be a significant follow-up after a colonoscopy.
This is because timely action is needed if cancer is suspected.
Beyond that, it can take a few days to receive the pathology report results.
The tests can reveal anyprecancerousor cancerous cells or if the cells are normal.
Others will want to discuss the results in person at a follow-up appointment.
This may be true even if no signs of cancer or precancer existed.
When Do I Need My Next Colonoscopy?
A normal colonoscopy typically means that you’re free to wait 10 years before having the next one.
Summary
A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to screen for colon cancer.
Colonoscopy recovery is usually quick with most people resuming normal activity the next day.
Even so, it is important not to rush back to work.
The results of your exam should be available within a few days.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Colonoscopy.
Sonnenberg A.Sedation in colonoscopy.Gastroenterol Hepatol (NY).2016;12(5):3279.
Erstad DJ, Krowsoski LS, Kaafarani HM.Abdominal pain after colonoscopy.Gastroenterology.
