Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: What to Expect

Flexible sigmoidoscopy examines the rectum and the lower part of the colon (the sigmoid colon) with a thin, flexible camera. It's shorter than a colonoscopy and needs a much simpler prep.

Why it's done

• To find the cause of rectal bleeding or lower belly pain
• To check or monitor ulcerative colitis and other inflammation
• To take biopsies or remove small polyps
• To evaluate diarrhea or changes in bowel habits

Because it does not see the whole colon, sigmoidoscopy is not a replacement for screening colonoscopy for most people.

How to prepare

• Buy one Fleet enema at the pharmacy
• 8 hours before your procedure time: stop solid food and milk. Clear liquids are OK.
• 3 hours before: stop all liquids, except a small sip of water for pills
• 2 hours before: use the Fleet enema, lying on your left side, and hold it 1 to 5 minutes before using the toilet
• Some blood thinners, diabetes medicines, weekly GLP-1 shots, and iron pills must be stopped days ahead. Your instruction sheet lists them.
• Plan for an adult to drive you home

Read the full sigmoidoscopy instructions (also in Español, Tiếng Việt, and 中文). All instruction sheets are on our Procedure Instructions page.

After the procedure

Mild bloating or gas is normal. If biopsies are taken, results take 7 to 10 business days. You cannot drive for the rest of the day if you had sedation. Call us right away for bad belly pain, fever, or more than a small amount of bleeding.

Make an appointment

Our gastroenterologists in Temple City care for patients from Arcadia, San Gabriel, Pasadena, Monrovia, Monterey Park, and across the San Gabriel Valley. We accept most PPO plans (see accepted insurances), and our doctors speak English, Vietnamese, and Mandarin. Schedule an appointment or call 626-898-4560.

This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your own health.