Bowel prep for colonoscopy

bowel prep · colonoscopy prep · bowel cleansing · how to drink colonoscopy prep

So the doctor can see the whole bowel, it must be fully cleaned with a special solution. Good prep decides whether the test works.

Before a colonoscopy, and sometimes before surgery or some X-ray tests of the bowel.

⏱ Duration: 3 days of diet, plus one evening and morning of cleansing

Be sure to tell your doctor

3 days before. You can eat: white bread, rice, pasta, boiled meat and fish, eggs, cottage cheese. Avoid: vegetables, fruit, berries, leafy greens, seeds, nuts, beans, and whole grain cereals.
The day before. A light breakfast, then clear liquids only: water, strained broth, tea without milk, clear juice without pulp.
The solution. Mix and drink it exactly as your product's instructions and your doctor say. Usually one glass every 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips. Chilled solution is easier to drink. You can follow it with a clear drink. Walk around the house. It helps it work faster.

The evening before, drink the first part of the solution within the time in your plan
In 1 to 2 hours, frequent watery stools will start. Stay near a toilet
Early in the morning, drink the second part, if you have a two-part plan
Finish drinking 3 to 4 hours before the colonoscopy, or by your clinic's deadline
You are ready when your stool is a clear yellow liquid with no bits

Severe belly pain, vomiting again and again, sudden weakness or dizziness: contact your clinic or call emergency services

What if I cannot finish the solution?

Drink more slowly, chill it, and take a 20 to 30 minute break. If you still cannot, call your clinic.

Can I eat during the prep?

After breakfast the day before, clear liquids only. Otherwise the bowel will not be clean.