Is Having a Sigmoidoscopy Painful?

A sigmoidoscopy can cause mild discomfort. You may feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement when the tube is inserted. You may also have brief muscle spasms or lower belly pain during the test. Taking deep breaths while the tube is being inserted may help decrease any pain.

How long does a sigmoidoscopy take?

The doctor can also insert instruments through the scope to take tissue samples. A flexible sigmoidoscopy exam typically takes about 15 minutes. It may require slightly more time if biopsies are taken. Sedation and pain medications usually aren't necessary.

How bad is a sigmoidoscopy?

You might be uncomfortable, but the procedure isn't typically painful. People aren't usually under sedation during a sigmoidoscopy, so your doctor might ask you to shift every so often to make it easier to move the scope. If your doctor sees any polyps or growths, they might remove them.