First Sigmoidoscopy and feeling very anxious

[PursueDreams1]

Hi everyone, I'm 20 and I've been referred for a Sigmoidoscopy in April. It's my first one and am obviously under the usual age bracket, but have been referred due to stomach cramps, bleeding etc. I have been reassured that my symptoms is almost certainly IBS with an anal fissure but they want to have a look just in case. I have no bowel prep and will just be getting an enema on arrival.

I have Anxiety and it heightens when I'm not in control of something, especially to do with my health so am feeling very anxious about having it. I've also never had an enema so not sure what to expect. I know you can have sedation, but I'm not keen on having this and want to avoid it if possible. I've seen lots of mixed reviews on Sigmoidoscopies, some saying it's the worst pain they've ever experienced and some saying they hardly felt anything at all.

I'm just wanting a bit of reassurance I guess and if there's anything I can do to prepare for it mentally rather than physically.

Thank you in advance.

[wfrances]

i didnt have to take any prep/enema the 2 times ive had one.(but my problem is i go too often)
its not at all painfull, just uncomfortable when the air is being pumped in.

[Seaoftroubles]

Don't worry, it really is a simple and painless procedure. You are lucky that you don't have to take the bowel prep as that was the worst part in my experience! I did not have sedation for the Sigmoidoscopy, felt no discomfort at all and the nurses and technicians were all friendly and reassuring-it was also fascinating watching what was going on on the monitor. Good luck-it really is nothing to feel anxious about.

[Theas18]

Haven't had one but agree with the above ( remember sigmoidoscopy isn't the same as full colonoscopy ) have heard it reported as really not that bad at all.

If it were me the " mental prep" would be to focus on the " gosh that's interesting " and remember that they might be shoving a wee camera up your bum, but unlike the dentist, if you are unhappy / in trouble it's easy to open your mouth and say something.

[gobbin]

Yes to what others have said - a flexi sig doesn't hurt and can be fascinating to see on the screen. You'll be treated with kindness and dignity and it won't take too long. The enema you just squirt up your bum whilst lying on your left side (lie on a towel in case it works too quickly!) and within 5 or 10 mins you'll feel the urge to splurge! Good luck x

[DustyMaiden]

I had one a few weeks ago, was offered gas and air for pain had it close by but didn't use it. I did experience period like cramps but only for a moment when the examination reached the furthest point. It was really no big deal.

Awful bowel preparation, like being ill and lasted for days.

[shadowfax07]

I felt a bit of discomfort rather than pain, and a few interesting sensations but I was far more interested in seeing the inside of my bowel again! (I've had a few).

The nurses are wonderful, and please remember that they have seen it all before - you won't be the first to do anything you may be embarrassed about.

[iwantgin]

I had one not too long ago- and it was fine.

I think it is worse when not knowing what to expect. Just let the nurses guide you and explain what will happen and when.

No bowel prep for me. Just a Fleet Enema shortly after arrival, then left in the room with private toilet for it to take action.

Once I got into the room where it was all to take place everyone was so friendly and obviously used to handling nervous patients having this investigation. The main doctor explained what he was going to do, and said to watch the screen. I did - it was quite interesting to see what your own insides look like.

Made general conversation, and kept distracted from any discomfort. There wasn't pain, as such. But towards the end there was a pushing feeling. As said upthread just felt cramps really.

Afterwards my blood pressure was low so I was kept on the trolley in recovery for a few minutes - rechecked then I just dressed and went off home.

No sedation for me. I drove myself there and back. It was fine really and if I had to have another I would not be anxious at all.