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Anxiety about colonoscopies? Supportive steps for prep
08/26/2025
Feeling anxious about getting a colonoscopy? Discover gentle guidance and calming tips to help ease your worries and prepare you comfortably.
By Steven Gorelick, MD, System Chair of the Nuvance Health Digestive Health Institute, part of Northwell Health
It’s normal to feel worried about having a colonoscopy. Many people share these concerns and your feelings matter. A colonoscopy is an important test for your digestive health. By knowing what to expect and how to get ready, you can ease your nerves. This guide provides helpful information to help you prepare for your colonoscopy with the support and confidence to put your mind at ease.
Learn more about Nuvance Health’s Digestive Health Institute.
Why colonoscopies are so important for your health
A colonoscopy lets your doctor check the inside of your large intestine and rectum using a thin, flexible tube with a camera. Its main goal is to find signs of colon cancer early, often by spotting and removing small growths called polyps before they can develop into cancer. Most people have their first colonoscopy at age 45, or earlier if there’s a family history or specific symptoms. Early screening greatly improves your long-term health.
Related content: Polyps found during colonoscopy, what’s next?
Common worries about colonoscopies and why you can feel at ease
It’s natural to have questions and concerns about any medical procedure. Let’s address some of the most common worries people have about colonoscopies.
“Is it embarrassing to get a colonoscopy?”
This is a very common concern and we want to reassure you medical professionals understand your need for privacy and dignity. The medical team performing your colonoscopy is highly professional and performs these procedures every day. They are focused on your health and comfort. You will be properly draped and only the necessary areas will be exposed. Your healthcare provider and the nursing staff are dedicated to making you feel as comfortable and respected as possible throughout the entire process.
Related content: What you need to know about colorectal cancer screenings, prevention and risk
“Is colonoscopy prep miserable?”
Many patients find the bowel preparation, or “prep,” to be the most challenging part of the colonoscopy process. While it requires careful adherence to instructions and can be inconvenient, it is not typically “miserable” in the way some people imagine. The prep is essential because your colon needs to be completely clean for your doctor to get a clear view and detect any polyps or abnormalities that could indicate the presence of cancer.
Related content: What will happen if my colonoscopy is abnormal?
The prep usually involves following a clear liquid diet for a day or two before the procedure and taking a laxative solution. This will cause frequent bowel movements, similar to diarrhea, to cleanse your colon.
Here are some tips to make the prep easier:
Follow instructions precisely: Your doctor’s office will give you detailed instructions. Stick to them carefully.
Chill your prep solution: Many people find the taste more tolerable when it’s cold. Clear, light-colored beverages like ginger ale or clear sports drinks (avoid red, blue, or purple dyes).
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of clear liquids beyond the prep solution to prevent dehydration.
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Create a comfortable environment: Stay home, close to a bathroom. Have soft toilet paper, wet wipes and soothing creams ready.
- Distract yourself: Watch movies, read a book or listen to music to pass the time.
Remember, the prep is temporary and it’s a vital step for a successful and accurate colonoscopy.
“What does a colonoscopy feel like? Will it hurt?”
Learn more about colonoscopies in this video: See what it’s like to get a colonoscopy screening
Many people worry a colonoscopy will be painful, but you will be given medication to keep you relaxed or asleep, so you shouldn’t feel any pain or remember the procedure. You might notice mild pressure or bloating afterward, but this usually goes away quickly. Your care team will closely monitor you to keep you comfortable throughout.
“What if I am too nervous for a colonoscopy? Can I take anxiety medication?”
Feeling nervous before your first colonoscopy is normal. If anxiety is strong, talk with your doctor or specialist ahead of time. They can help. Your doctor might recommend a safe, mild anxiety medication, but only take this if it’s discussed and prescribed for you. They can also suggest relaxation techniques or explain the procedure to ease your concerns.
Related content: Is someone being a pain in the butt about colonoscopy screenings? Here is what to say to them.
“Can a doctor see cancer during a colonoscopy?”
A colonoscopy is the best way to find colon cancer early and spot growths that could turn into cancer. The camera lets your doctor see your colon closely and catch any signs of trouble. If anything unusual, like a polyp, is found, your doctor can remove it or take a small tissue sample right away. This quick action makes colonoscopies very effective for preventing colon cancer.
Preparing for your colonoscopy: A step-by-step guide to ease your mind
Good preparation is key to a successful colonoscopy and can significantly reduce your anxiety.
Before the prep day
Talk to your doctor: Have an open conversation about any medications you take, your health conditions and any specific concerns you have. Ask questions about the prep instructions until you feel clear about them.
Understand the instructions: Make sure you know exactly when to start your clear liquid diet and when to begin taking your laxative solution.
Arrange transportation: Because you will receive sedation, you will not be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. Arrange for a responsible adult to pick you up and stay with you for the rest of the day. This is a non-negotiable safety requirement.
Gather supplies: Stock up on clear liquids (broth, clear juices, sports drinks, gelatin, water), soft toilet paper and any comfort items you might want during the prep.
Related content: Frequently asked questions about colonoscopies
During the prep day
Follow the clear liquid diet: This means no solid foods. Stick to the approved list provided by your doctor.
Start your laxative solution as directed: Drink it at the specified times. It’s important to finish all of it to ensure thorough cleansing of your bowel.
Stay hydrated: Continue drinking plenty of clear liquids to replace fluids lost during the prep.
Related content: What are types of colorectal cancer treatments?
Stay comfortable: Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Have entertainment ready. Remember, this phase is temporary.
The day of the procedure
Follow fasting instructions: Do not eat or drink anything after the time specified by your doctor.
Arrive on time: This allows ample time for check-in and pre-procedure preparations.
Ask any last-minute questions: Your medical team will be there to answer them.
Prepare for sedation: An IV will be placed and the sedation will be administered, helping you relax and drift off to sleep.
Related content: Blood in stool? Keep cool, know these 5-colon cancer signs
What happens during and after your colonoscopy
Knowing what to expect during and immediately after the procedure can further reduce your anxiety.
During the procedure
Once you are comfortably sedated, your doctor will gently insert the colonoscope into your rectum and guide it through your colon. Air or carbon dioxide will be gently introduced to inflate the colon, allowing for a clearer view of the lining. The doctor will carefully examine the entire colon for any polyps, bleeding or other abnormalities. If polyps are found, they will be removed and if any suspicious tissue is seen, a biopsy will be taken. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
After the procedure: “Can I be left alone after a colonoscopy?”
After your colonoscopy, you’ll rest in a recovery area as the sedation wears off. It’s normal to feel groggy or notice mild bloating or gas, which should pass quickly. You’ll need a responsible adult to drive you home. Avoid driving, using machinery, making important decisions or drinking alcohol for 24 hours. Your doctor will talk with you about what was found during the procedure and full results from any samples taken will be shared within a week or two.
Related content: Colonoscopy with biopsy— what it means and what to expect
Practical tips for managing anxiety before your colonoscopy
Beyond understanding the procedure, there are active steps you can take to manage your anxiety:
Educate yourself: You’re already doing this by reading this article. The more you understand, the less the unknown can fuel your fears.
Talk to your healthcare team: Don’t hesitate to voice your concerns to your doctor, nurses or the gastroenterology office staff. They are your partners in this process.
Related content: What are types of colorectal cancer treatments?
Focus on the benefits: Remind yourself this procedure is a powerful tool for preventing colorectal cancer and maintaining your long-term health. It’s a proactive step you are taking for yourself.
Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing exercises, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your nervous system. There are many free apps and online resources available.
Distraction: On the day of your prep and before the procedure, engage in activities that take your mind off your worries. Listen to music, watch a favorite show, read a book or talk to a friend.
Lean on your support system: Share your feelings with trusted family members or friends. Their emotional support can make a big difference.
The bottom line: A colonoscopy is a routine, safe and incredibly effective medical procedure that saves lives through early cancer detection and prevention. While it’s completely understandable to feel some anxiety, we hope that by providing clear information and practical tips, we’ve helped to ease your concerns.
You are taking an important step for your health, and your medical team is dedicated to making the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Considering a colonoscopy? Book an appointment with a gastroenterologist.