The doctor then inserts the flexible sigmoidoscope instrument. It is about 24 inches long and is very movable, like a small piece of tubing. The doctor can control the movement of the scope. By gently moving the tube, the doctor can insert it into the rectum and look at the lower part of the bowel and the colon. The process feels like the discomfort of gas cramps.
Most people compare the feeling to a slightly uncomfortable bowel movement.
If the bowel has a lot of loops, the discomfort will be greater, but this is unusual. Medication is not prescribed before or after the procedure unless the patient feels particularly anxious and requests it. The patient may take four 200 mg tablets of ibuprofen 2 hours before the procedure. A patient is generally able to come straight from work and return to work after the procedure. If the fluid from the bowel is not clear, a third enema is needed.