Sigmoidoscopy Prep

Your physician has requested that you receive a sigmoidoscopy examination to view the inside of the lower portion of your large intestine. Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a visual examination of the lower colon (rectum and sigmoid colon). Your appointment will last about one half-hour but the actual examination generally takes less than 15 minutes and sedation is usually not given.

Preparation for the Exam:

1. Discuss with your doctor the medications you take. Your medication schedule may have to be adjusted the week before your sigmoidoscopy.
2. If you have a morning appointment, you should have a clear liquid breakfast.
3. If you have an afternoon appointment, you may have a light breakfast, followed by a clear-liquid lunch.
4. An hour and a half before your appointment you will have to give yourself a Fleets enema.
5. One hour before your appointment you will have to give yourself the second Fleets enema.
6. Please make sure that you arrive at least 30 minutes before your appointment.