human
My doctor wants me to get a colonoscopy, but I've never done one before. What should I expect?
assistant
You can expect the procedure to take about an hour or two, and involve some preparation beforehand. The doctor will give you instructions on what you need to do for the day of your exam, including fasting for at least six hours before the appointment. Once you arrive at the clinic, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie down on a table. The doctor will then insert a scope up your rectum and slowly move it through your colon. During the exam, they may also use other tools such as biopsy forceps to remove samples from your colon wall. After the exam is completed, you will be given pain medication and monitored until you are fully recovered.