It is important to properly prepare for a colonoscopy because the colon needs to be as clean and clear as possible so the doctor can see all potential growths. If the colon is not clean, the doctor may not be able to get a clear view of any growths.Several days before the exam, you may need to stop taking blood-thinning medications, including aspirin and other types of medication. Always speak to your HCP before stopping any medications.Three days before a colonoscopy, reduce the amount of high-fiber food you eat. For example, avoid beans, vegetables, popcorn, nuts or multigrain bread. The day before a colonoscopy, only drink clear liquids and nothing with red or purple coloring. Your HCP will prescribe a bowel-cleaning liquid for you to drink the day before and the morning of the exam. You should not eat or drink anything for two hours before the procedure. Last but not least, arrange for a responsible driver to take you home after the procedure once you’re done. Another option is a screening test that checks your stool for signs of cancer. These tests are easier to have done and can be done at home, but need to be done more often than a colonoscopy (every one to three years instead of every 10 years for a colonoscopy). If your results are abnormal, you will need to have a colonoscopy as a follow-up. These tests can be used if you have an average risk of colorectal cancer. If you have any risk factors, such as previous polyps or a family history, a visual exam, such as a colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy, is the most effective screening process.