Bowel scope screening age 55 - what was it like for you?

[RaisinsRuinEverything]

I’m going for this screening in March but feeling nervous. I know I must go because my mum died of bowel cancer.
Basically you do an enema at home an hour before you leave for your appointment and clear out your bowels (sorry TMI). At the hospital they insert a tube up your bum and you can see the inside of your bowel on screen. If it finds polyps (which could turn into cancer) it removes them straightaway.
What I’m nervous about isn’t so much the possibility of finding cancer, it’s more the actual procedure:
Will the enema cause a poonami and do I need to take it earlier? Don’t want to miss my appointment because I’m sat on the loo!
When they put the tube in did it hurt?
How long did it take?
Any other advice? Do I just need to put on my big girl pants? (Before I take them off again)

You'll get an info pack with the enema. It's actually easy. You have to take it an hour before you leave the house and you need to 'keep it in' for up to five mins if possible. It's a normal bowel movement so don't worry about poonami! The actual procedure is five mins and they can give you gas and air if needed. I had it last year and found it a bit uncomfortable so I took the gas and air. The nurses said most people don't need it. No side effects etc. Don't stress about it. It's fine.

Oh and it doesn't hurt when they put the tube in. 😄

The preparation is fine. My instructions suggested using oil (as in cooking not motor!) to help insert the enema. Tbh that made it a right palaver as the bloody tube was slithering all over the bathroom like an angry snake every time I tried to pick it up. Once it's done and you've held the stuff in, you will go, bit is just a bit more urgent than normal.

In terms of the procedure, I did find it painful at one point, so had gas and air which helped. DHs experience was very similar. If you do find it uncomfortable, say and you'll be offered gas and air. Good luck, and well done for going, lots of people don't.

Ps the staff were absolutely lovely. Very kind and maintained as much of my dignity as is possible with a camera up your bum

Thanks both! That’s very reassuring. Lol at motor oil!
I’ve been told I will get an info pack along with the dreaded snake thingy about 2 weeks before.
It’s 2 months away but Will keep you posted!