Published on: 6/11/2024
Is a Colonoscopy Painful?
Most people have little to no pain with a colonoscopy. Patients who have had colon surgery or women who have had a hysterectomy (removal of their uterus) are at higher risk of experiencing pain.
Explanation
The three main causes of pain during colonoscopy are: Factors associated with pain during colonoscopy include being female, poor bowel preparation and the procedure being performed by someone who does not perform a high number of procedures. Pain during the procedure can be treated with pain medications and sedatives.
- Pain from stretching the walls of the colon by the endoscope.
- Pain from overinflating the colon with gas. When the endoscope is advanced through the colon, air is forced into it to ensure a clear field of view. Too much air in the colon leads to distension and pain.
- Pain from moving through prior scar tissue (adhesions) in and around the surronding bowel due to diverticulitis or prior abdominal surgeries.
(References)
Hull T, Church JM. Colonoscopy--how difficult, how painful? Surg Endosc. 1994 Jul;8(7):784-7. doi: 10.1007/BF00593441. PMID: 7974107.
Rahman N, Cuison FA, Shabir O, et alPWE-069-Factors Associated with Reported Pain During Colonoscopy: A Retrospective StudyGut 2013;62:A158-A159.
Shah SG, Brooker JC, Thapar C, Williams CB, Saunders BP. Patient pain during colonoscopy: an analysis using real-time magnetic endoscope imaging. Endoscopy. 2002 Jun;34(6):435-40. doi: 10.1055/s-2002-31995. PMID: 12048623.
Share this page
For First Time Users
What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Learn more about diseases
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes, and the provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical practice. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.