Has anybody had a colonoscopy?

[janeylou25]

I have been sent an appointment for a colonoscopy after a recent smear test result showed abnormal cells.

I was wondering if anybody would share their experiences of this as my mind has gone into overdrive of worry!

Thanks in advance.

Hi OP

If it's after a smear it's likely a colposcopy (cervix) rather than a colonoscopy (bowel). I've had both and the bowel is a lot worse you'll be pleased to know!

By all means wait for responses but in the meantime there are lots of existing threads on here about cervical screening recall and the vast majority end up being ok. You could try Googling 'abnormal smear result mumsnet' or 'colpolscopy after smear mumsnet' (or other wording to that effect) and that will take you to some relevant threads.

Try not to panic, it's really common to get a recall after a smear.

I've also had both. It will be the colposcopy if it's for abnormal cells. Basically I sat/lay down legs apart and they had a screen and essentially put a little camera up there and you could see it on the screen. They took a little sample which hurt a bit but overall an okay experience and it showed I was fine just needed a follow up in a year.

The colonoscopy was worse for sure. It included drinking a god awful solution to clear you out and only eating jelly or something for a day. Then I was sedated and they put tubes up me. Worse but also not completely horrific, I wouldn't volunteer for this one but needs must.

Good luck!

Thank you for your replies and advice. After looking at my letter again it is indeed a colposcopy I will be having!

I will look at other threads too, as suggested.

Thanks