Questions & Answers for Patients

❓ What is a sigmoidoscopy?

🔍 A sigmoidoscopy is a test that lets the doctor look inside the lower part of your large intestine (colon).

This part is called the sigmoid colon and rectum.

❓ Why do doctors do a sigmoidoscopy?

🩺 Doctors use this test to:

• Find colon polyps

• Check for a mass or growth

• Look for the cause of bleeding

• Check for inflammation from IBD

❓ How does sigmoidoscopy help find polyps?

🌱 Polyps are small growths inside the colon.

Sigmoidoscopy helps doctors:

• See polyps early

• Remove small polyps

• Prevent colon cancer

❓ How does sigmoidoscopy help find a mass?

🎯 A mass is a larger growth.

The test can:

• Find abnormal areas

• Take a small tissue sample (biopsy)

• Help plan the next steps for care

❓ Why is sigmoidoscopy done for bleeding?

🩸 Bleeding can cause:

• Blood in the stool

• Anemia (low blood count)

Sigmoidoscopy helps doctors:

• Find the source of bleeding

• Treat some causes right away

❓ How does sigmoidoscopy help with IBD?

🔥 IBD includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Sigmoidoscopy helps doctors:

• See inflammation and ulcers

• Check how active the disease is

• Guide treatment decisions

❓ How do I prepare for a sigmoidoscopy?

📋 To prepare:

• 🚫 You may need to use an enema

• 🍽️ You may need to avoid solid food for a short time

• 💊 Follow your doctor’s medicine instructions

This helps clean the lower colon.

❓ Will the test hurt?

🙂 Most people feel pressure or cramping, but not pain.

• Sedation is usually not needed

• The test is short

❓ What happens during the test?

⏱️ The test usually takes 10–20 minutes.

• You lie on your side

• A thin tube with a camera is placed into the rectum

• Air may be added to help the doctor see

• Biopsies may be taken

❓ What happens after the test?

🏠 You can usually:

• Go home right away

• Return to normal activities

You may have:

• Mild gas or bloating

❓ Are there any risks?

⚠️ Sigmoidoscopy is very safe.

Rare risks include:

• Bleeding

• Tear in the colon

Your doctor will talk with you about risks before the test.

❓ When should I call my doctor?

📞 Call if you have:

• Severe belly pain

• Heavy bleeding

• Fever

✅ Key Things to Remember

✔ Checks the lower part of the colon
✔ Helps find polyps, bleeding, and inflammation
✔ Quick and usually no sedation needed
✔ Helps guide treatment for IBD

🩺 Sigmoidoscopy