Why do I need a colonoscopy?

You have been referred for a colonoscopy to help find out more about the cause of any problematic symptoms such as:
 

• persistent diarrhoea

• a change in bowel habit

• bleeding or mucus from your back passage. 

• iron deficiency anaemia

• abdominal pain

​​
A colonoscopy can be arranged to remove a polyp, or a surveillance procedure to check for further polyps if removed in the past. It is also used as part of the bowel cancer screening programme.

 

During the procedure, the endoscopist will be able to see the lining of your bowel; they will look for any evidence of disease, polyps or cancers in the bowel that may be causing your symptoms. The results of the procedure will help your doctor decide on the best course of treatment for your symptoms and to identify the need for any further investigations.