Sigmoidoscopy

[Yonihadtoask]

Any tips?

I have been scheduled for one - originally went in for bad piles, and fissure.

I know I will be going in, and expecting to be there a couple of hours - enema first etc.

No sedation was offered. The nurse said it will be 'uncomfortable' ! Does that mean painful?

[JacqueslePeacock]

No, mine was just very weird and uncomfortable, not actually painful - although I was offered pethadine (I think) but chose not to have it as I hate the way it makes me feel out of control. At least it's not like a full colonoscopy where you have to do all the bowel prep the night before (worst evening of my life!). Felt fine fairly quickly afterwards too. Good luck!

[gamerchick]

I've had a colonoscopy.. The laxative was the worst.

The actual thing is all right.. lying on your back after they've put the camera in is more comfortable though.

Everybody's different but I had to have a settee day the day after as my insides felt bruised and stomach swelled up. But that doesn't happen to everybody I don't think.

[gamerchick]

I opted out of the sedation and it was uncomfortable when they puffed the air in but it's mint watching your insides on the screen.

Good luck.

[Yonihadtoask]

Thanks for the replies.

I guess it will be interesting watching the screen. Never seen up my own backside before :)

I may take some co codamol before, as they make me woozy anyway.

Not looking forward to the wind. I don't do farting, particularly not around dH. Sigh..

[SunnyRandall]

I lay on my side not my back. No sedation. Wasn't uncomfortable at all really. Worst bit was all the waiting around for my turn. Oh and the DIY enema they send you to do.

No farting afterwards either.

[gamerchick]

I remember going to the room and the dude doing it was young ish and breathtakingly yummy. All I could think about was my red raw bumhole from the laxative. [Grin]

They're really good though at putting you at ease I wouldn't be worried about having another one if it ever happened.

[Heymacarena]

Update here. (I name changed recently)

Today was the day of my sigmoidoscopy. I was a bit nervous, but mostly about actually getting there as I had to go on my own today. The hospital is in a different town, and I don't know it well.

Anyway - I was there early - got taken in to fill out forms etc. Then changed into a gown and paper pants (I initially thought it was a hair net...) The nurse gave me the enema - and left me alone, instructing me to hold on to it for at least 10 minutes. the toilet was in the same room so was all very private and comfortable.

Then sat in a waiting area with my book for about 30 mins.

Then was called into the main room. I was expecting an operating theatre type room, but it was quite small actually. The actual process didn't hurt, it w was a bit crampy and I could feel it right up under my rib area. Very, very strange. It was all done in about 10 mins or less. The staff were all nice, and chatted to keep my mind off it all.

I was then wheeled into the recovery room, where I had blood pressure checked etc and then left to dress in private again.

Offered a drink and sit down, but I was happy to go home.

This afternoon I have been very windy - I could hear it all gurgling around - they pump air in to get a better view. but other than that no problems.

So for anyone who is awaiting this test - it really isn't so bad.