I'd say a colonoscopy was more unpleasant then painful. I found the worst part was the preparation which can vary but which in my case involoved drinking a massive amount of liquid over the course of 12 hours causing the most chronic diarrohea I've ever had. This is to clear out the bowels. The colonoscopy itself took probably about 15 minutes - it was painful as it went around corners - a bit like very bad wind but only lasted for a few minutes at a time. I think some people are offered the option of a tranquilliser - I was not and I don't think I needed one. After the colonoscopy is over there is no pain or discomfort.
I'd say a colonoscopy was more unpleasant then painful. I found the worst part was the preparation which can vary but which in my case involoved drinking a massive amount of liquid over the course of 12 hours causing the most chronic diarrohea I've ever had. This is to clear out the bowels. The colonoscopy itself took probably about 15 minutes - it was painful as it went around corners - a bit like very bad wind but only lasted for a few minutes at a time. I think some people are offered the option of a tranquilliser - I was not and I don't think I needed one. After the colonoscopy is over there is no pain or discomfort.
