Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is an exam patients undergo to look for changes in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. These changes may include polyps, cancerous cells, and irritated tissues. A colonoscopy is used as a screening method for colon cancer, which is the fourth most common cancer among men and women in the United States.
Current guidelines recommend for people to begin regular screenings at age 45 if you have an average risk of colorectal cancer. For those with a higher risk due to genetic conditions like Lynch Syndrome or a family history of the disease, you should begin screening earlier.
If you are under the age of 45 and are experiencing GI symptoms such as blood in the stool or unexplained weight loss, or significant GI discomfort, you may also need to prioritize scheduling a colonoscopy screening.
During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope is inserted into the rectum. The colonoscope has a camera on it, which allows the doctor to exam the inside of the colon. Sometimes, tissue or polyps may be removed during a colonoscopy for further examination.
Your primary care provider can provide a referral for your colonoscopy. They should be your first point of contact for preparing to undergo this screening procedure.
Your health care provider will explain the procedure and preparations needed before it. Preparations for your colonoscopy will include signing a consent form and following the doctor’s instructions (like not eating or drinking before the procedure or adhering to a certain diet leading up to it).
It’s vital that you follow the instructions carefully in the time before your colonoscopy. This helps ensure the effectiveness of the exam. Your health care provider will also give you instructions on how to prepare your bowel for the colonoscopy. You may be asked to take a laxative, enema, or a rectal laxative suppository. Your colon must be fully clean for the evaluation.
Be sure to tell your doctor if you have sensitivities to any medicines, latex, tape, or anesthesia medications. You should also share with your doctor any medications you take, and if you have a history of bleeding disorders, or if you may be pregnant.
Ask your PCP at your annual exam or check your preventative care tab in MyChart. If you don't have a PCP, our search tool can help you choose a doctor or health care provider that is best for you or your family.
Speak with your gastrointestinal (GI) specialist. If you don't have a GI specialist, our search tool can help you choose a specialist that is best for you.
Choose from any of the following locations to take the next step in your screening journey.
One Memorial Drive
Alton, IL 62002
618-463-7311
One Barnes-Jewish Plaza
St. Louis, MO 63110
314-747-3000
Outpatient Surgery and Endoscopy Center
100 Entrance Way
St. Peters, MO 63376
636-928-9355
12634 Olive Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63141
314-542-WEST (9378)
11155 Dunn Rd
Suite 309E
St. Louis, MO 63136
314-953-8788
4550 Memorial Dr.
Suite 280
Belleville, IL 62226
314-273-2234
3009 N. Ballas Road
Suite 359C
St. Louis, MO 63131
Doctors Building C
20 Progress Point Parkway
Suite 206
O'Fallon, MO 63368
314-273-2234
70 Jungermann Circle
Suite 201
Saint Peters, MO 63376
314-273-2234
11133 Dunn Rd
St. Louis, MO 63136
314-747-9355
3015 N. Ballas Road
St. Louis, MO 63131
314-996-5000
1101 West Liberty Street
Farmington, MO 63640
573-756-6751