How to take the bowel preparation
Bowel preparation is normally taken at home. The clinic explains the product, amount and timing. If you are concerned about taking it, ask about a trial dose during the advance consultation.
Colonoscopy
Discuss colonoscopy after a positive stool test or a change in bowel habits
You can contact the clinic before deciding on the examination. We explain how to take the bowel preparation, whether sedation may be suitable and what happens if a polyp is found.
Before you book
Discuss the practical concerns that often delay colonoscopy
The clinic explains the preparation, sedation, possible treatment and aftercare before the examination date is confirmed.
Anxiety during the examination
You can request a sedation consultation when booking. A clinician decides whether and how sedation can be used after reviewing your health and medication.
If a polyp is found
A polyp may be removed during the same examination when the doctor considers this safe based on its features, your medication and general health.
Plans after the examination
Observation usually takes about 20 minutes. Recovery time and restrictions depend on sedation, tissue sampling and treatment.
Overview
What the examination looks for
The examination can identify polyps, inflammation, ulcers, bleeding and other changes. Preparation quality, the shape of the intestine and your health can affect how much of the colon can be examined.
Symptoms
Reasons to discuss this examination
- Blood in the stool
- A positive fecal occult blood test
- Persistent constipation or diarrhea
- A change in stool shape or frequency
- Ongoing abdominal pain or bloating
- Unexplained anemia
Preparation
Before your appointment
- 01
Bring your health screening report, referral letter or previous colonoscopy report if available.
- 02
A pre-examination consultation is generally required to review surgery, medical conditions, allergies, medication and bowel preparation.
- 03
Bowel preparation is normally taken at home. The clinic provides individual instructions about the product, amount and timing. If you are concerned, ask about a trial dose at the advance consultation.
- 04
Contact the clinic if you develop severe pain, vomiting or another concerning symptom during preparation.
Aftercare
After the examination
- Instructions differ depending on whether the examination involved observation, biopsy or treatment.
- If a sedative is used, you must not drive a car, motorcycle or bicycle for the rest of that day.
- Follow the instructions about meals, alcohol, exercise, travel and work after the examination.
- The clinic will explain when and how to seek help for severe pain, bleeding or fever.
- Bowel preparation and colonoscopy can cause changes in your condition. Bleeding, perforation, allergic reactions, and effects on breathing or blood pressure can occur. The clinic reviews medical conditions and medication in advance.
FAQ
Colonoscopy questions
I have a positive fecal occult blood test but no symptoms. Should I book?
Please contact the clinic for assessment. A positive result is a reason to discuss a detailed examination even when you feel well. Repeating the stool test does not replace that evaluation.
I am concerned about taking the bowel preparation
Bowel preparation is normally taken at home. The clinic explains the product, amount and timing in advance and can discuss a trial dose if needed.
Can a polyp be removed during the examination?
A polyp may be removed during the same examination when the doctor considers this safe after reviewing its size, number, shape and location, your medication and general health. If treatment at the clinic is unsuitable, you will be referred to a partner hospital.
How long does colonoscopy take?
Observation usually takes about 20 minutes. It may take longer when tissue sampling or polyp removal is performed. Preparation, recovery and the explanation of results add to the total visit time.
Can I work after the examination?
This depends on sedation, biopsy or treatment. The clinic will give you individual instructions after the examination.
Medical references
The clinic’s individual instructions take priority. Japanese source pages are provided for medical reference.
Contact
Ask us about colonoscopy
Start with a positive screening result, bowel symptoms or concerns about preparation and sedation.