Colonoscopy
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What is a Colonoscopy?
Private Colonoscopy | Serving Milton Keynes, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and surrounding areas
A colonoscopy is a test that allows a specialist to examine the inside of your large bowel (colon) using a long, thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end. It is an essential tool for investigating a wide range of symptoms and conditions affecting the lower digestive tract.
At Harmony Digestive & Liver Wellness Centre, we offer private colonoscopy services led by expert gastroenterologists in a calm and professional setting.
Colonoscopy is used to investigate symptoms such as:
– Change in bowel habits
– Unexplained weight loss
– Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
– Persistent abdominal pain or bloating
– Anaemia or abnormal blood test results
– Family history of bowel cancer or polyps
– Monitoring inflammatory bowel disease (e.g. Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)
Before the Test
To ensure a successful and accurate colonoscopy, you will need to prepare your bowel in advance. This involves following a specific low-fibre diet for a few days before the test and taking a strong laxative (bowel preparation) to empty the colon. You will receive full written instructions, including what foods to eat and avoid, and how to take the bowel prep solution.
It is also important to inform us of any medications you are taking, especially blood thinners or diabetes medications, as adjustments may be needed.
What Happens During the Test?
A colonoscopy usually takes 20-30 minutes. It can be performed with or withoutsedation. The doctor passes the colonoscope into your rectum and through the colon. The camera sends real-time images to a screen, allowing your doctor to carefully inspect the bowel lining.
If necessary, small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken, or polyps (growths) removed during the procedure for further analysis. These are painless steps performed routinely during colonoscopy.
You will need to follow a special diet and take bowel preparation medicine before the test to ensure your colon is clean. Clear instructions will be given in advance.
Aftercare and Results
You will rest in our recovery area while the effects of sedation wear off. Most people feel back to normal within 24 hours. You must not drive, operate machinery, or drink alcohol for the rest of the day.
If biopsies are taken or polyps removed, results are usually available within 10-14 working days. A follow-up consultation can be arranged to discuss the findings and any further steps.
Safety and Potential Complications
Colonoscopy is a safe and commonly performed procedure, particularly when carried out by experienced specialists. Complications are rare but can include:
– Cramping or bloating after the test (common)
– Bleeding (especially if a biopsy or polyp removal is done) (<1%)
– Perforation (a small tear in the bowel wall – very rare) (<1%)
– Reaction to sedation
We take every precaution to reduce these risks and ensure your procedure is performed safely and with your comfort in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes – a consultation will be arranged to understand your symptoms, review your medical history, and ensure colonoscopy is the appropriate investigation.
You will be given a sedative to help you feel relaxed. You may be awake but drowsy
You will need to follow a low-fibre diet for a few days and take bowel preparation medicine the day before. Detailed instructions will be provided.
You can usually go home after resting for 30 minutes. Someone must accompany you as you cannot drive after sedation.
If no biopsy is taken, your doctor may be able to give you a preliminary result on the same day. If a biopsy is performed, results typically take 5–7 working days.
Most people do not find the test painful, especially with sedation. You may experience mild cramping or bloating afterwards, which passes quickly.
You may receive a preliminary result on the day. If biopsies are taken, results are typically ready within 10-14 working days.
