It’s essential to take care of your colon health, and one of the best ways to do it is through colonoscopy. Married couples have an advantage in scheduling and supporting each other through the process.

What is Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a medical screening procedure that helps doctors identify potential issues in the colon, such as inflammation, ulcers, and polyps, that could lead to colorectal cancer.

A healthcare professional uses a colonoscope (a flexible tube with a camera on the end) to inspect your colon starting from your rectum.

Who Needs Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is recommended for several situations:.

Individuals with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
Individuals with chronic constipation or diarrhea, gastrointestinal bleeding, or abdominal pain

It’s also recommended for anyone over the age of 50 to get screened for colon cancer regularly.

Your physician would recommend the ideal frequency of screening based on several factors, including your individual risk factors, your family history, etc.

Why Do Married Couples Have an Advantage?

Colonoscopy requires a significant amount of preparation, which can be overwhelming, uncomfortable, and sometimes embarrassing. As such, having a supportive partner can make a real difference.

Married couples who schedule their colonoscopies around the same time can provide each other with much-needed support during the preparation and procedure.

For instance, they can remind each other to take bowel cleansers, clear their schedules together, and drive each other to and from the appointment. Knowing that someone you love is also going through the same process can alleviate anxiety and provide emotional support.

Another advantage is that colonoscopies are typically covered by many health insurance plans. Therefore, couples who are on the same health plan can save money by scheduling their appointments simultaneously.

How to Prepare for Colonoscopy

Preparing for colonoscopy usually involves particular dietary and medication instructions. Your physician would provide specific preparation guidelines, but here are some general instructions:.

Avoid solid foods for a day or two before the procedure and consume only clear liquids such as water, broth, or gelatin
Avoid red or purple-colored liquids as they can be confused with blood during the procedure
Take laxatives or enemas to clean out your bowel the day or night before the procedure
Stop taking any blood thinners, including aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, for several days before the procedure
Arrange for transportation on the day of the procedure as sedation is usually used, and you may need time to recover before driving

What to Expect During Colonoscopy

During the colonoscopy procedure, your healthcare provider will insert a colonoscope into your rectum while you lie on your side. They will slowly advance the tube while inflating your colon with air to ensure the tube can pass through comfortably.

If they see abnormal tissue or polyps or need to take a biopsy, they will remove them or take a sample for further testing.

You will not feel any pain during the procedure because you will be sedated, but you may feel some discomfort from the air.

The procedure takes roughly 30-60 minutes, after which you will stay in the medical facility for a period to recover from the sedation.

Colonoscopy is Worth the Effort

Colonoscopy is a valuable tool in identifying potential colon health issues and taking preventative measures before they escalate into something more serious.

While the preparation and procedure may be uncomfortable, it’s worth the effort for long-term health benefits. Married couples who are supportive of each other during this process and get screened together have an advantage that can make the entire process more manageable.