My mother warned me about the terrible taste of the colonoscopy prep medicine and the need to stay close to the toilet after drinking it. When I told others I had a colonoscopy scheduled, I was met with moans and expressions of sympathy. Instead of being anxious about the procedure, I decided to approach it how I approach most things - with curiosity and a positive attitude.
Like many others, including my sister who is a nurse, I thought colonoscopies were supposed to begin when you turn 50, but in May 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force issued new recommendations for colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45. So, at 49, it was past time for me.
Here are the three reasons why I enjoyed my colonoscopy:
1 - Flushed and clean!
I like things clean and sure enough, my colon is no exception! After drinking the prep liquid and tons of water, I poo'd a lot (I'm talking 25 times), until my poo was nearly clear. For me, it felt like the first time I felt completely flushed and clean!
2 - Great sleep
For the procedure, the nurse gave me warm socks and a blanket, turned me on my left side, hiked up my right knee a bit and put something lovely in my IV to put me to sleep. I woke up in recovery, my husband drove me home and I slept like a baby for a few more hours. Plus, I had no recollection of anything that happened during the procedure.
3 - Off my "to do" list
I'm big on "to do" lists - well actually checking things off the list, so getting this preventative care off my list gave me a dopamine boost.
The doctor removed one small polyp and I'm "clear" for the next five years. I encourage you to approach this procedure with a good attitude and try to have a positive experience like I did. For now, I'll be putting another screening on my "to do" list for 2028.
Getting ready for my nap
Colon "selfies" I found on My Chart
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