BOWEL PREPARATION
Preparation for your Colonoscopy
Why Preparation Matters before your Colonoscopy
For your specialist to get an adequate view of your bowel, it needs to be fully emptied beforehand. If residue is left behind, it can hide subtle abnormalities and may mean the procedure has to be done again. By carefully following these instructions, you will help protect your safety and ensure the procedure is as effective as possible. In some situations, we may modify your preparation instructions or your regular medications to optimise your safety. Any such changes will be discussed with you prior to your procedure.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
You will receive sedation and cannot drive for 24 hours after the procedure. Arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you overnight.
If you are travelling by taxi, Uber, or DVA transport, you must have someone accompany you.
Contact GastroConnect if you have:
Pacemaker or implantable device
Chronic constipation or previous incomplete/suboptimal bowel preparation
Diabetes
Take blood thinners
Use Wegovy, Ozempic or Mounjaro
Do not travel internationally or to remote areas for two weeks after the procedure due to a small risk of delayed complications.
Preparing for your Colonoscopy
7 Days before your Procedure
Stop iron tablets, multivitamins, and fish oil.
Continue aspirin unless instructed otherwise.
3 Days before your Procedure
Diet: Begin low-fibre diet.
Allowed foods: white bread, plain crackers, beef/lamb/pork/chicken or fish (no skin), eggs, plain cheese, potato (no skin), white rice/pasta, pumpkin, avocado, mushrooms, plain yoghurt (no seeds or nuts), tofu.
Avoid: skins, seeds, nuts, whole grains, fruit, vegetables.