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What to Expect Before Your First Colonoscopy

What to Expect Before Your First Colonoscopy

February 27, 2026

You’ve scheduled the appointment. Maybe you’ve already Googled the prep. And now the questions are creeping in.

Can I eat this? What’s ok to drink? Is the prep really as bad as everyone says?

“For most people, the anxiety is far worse than the experience itself,” says Ramnath Hebbar, MD, a gastroenterologist with Hartford HealthCare. “Once people understand what the preparation involves, the process becomes much less intimidating.”

Here’s what to expect before your first colonoscopy.

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Your colon needs to be completely empty

A colonoscopy allows your doctor to examine the lining of your colon early. But to do that, the colon needs to be empty.

“The quality of the preparation directly affects how well we can examine the colon,” Dr. Hebbar says. “A good prep helps us detect polyps and other changes that might otherwise be missed.”

It’s important to follow the instructions from your doctor closely so that the test (and all that prep) doesn’t need to be repeated.

> Related: 7 Common Questions About Colonoscopies

You’ll follow a special diet for a few days

In the days leading up to your colonoscopy, your doctor will ask you to avoid foods that are harder to digest or leave residue behind.

This might include:

  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Popcorn
  • Raw vegetables
  • Whole grains.

Then, the day before the procedure, you’ll switch to clear liquids only, like:

  • Water
  • Broth
  • Tea
  • Black coffee
  • Juices without pulp

But be careful with colored drinks — red and purple liquids can interfere with your test results.

> Related: The 8 Best Foods for Your Colon

Plan to stay near a bathroom for several hours

Once you start your prep, you can expect frequent bowel movements for several hours.

“The prep itself isn’t painful, but it does require planning,” Dr. Hebbar says. “Knowing you’ll need frequent bathroom access and preparing for that ahead of time can make a big difference.

Using soothing wipes or applying a barrier cream can help keep you comfortable during this phase.

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Your medications will be reviewed ahead of time

“Certain medications can affect the procedure or the preparation, which is why we review them carefully ahead of time,” Dr. Hebbar says. “It’s important not to stop anything unless your doctor specifically advises you to.”

Blood thinners, diabetes medications and certain supplements are common examples. Your care team will review your medication list and give you clear instructions.

> Related: 4 Tips for Colonoscopy Prep

You’ll be sedated — and need a ride home

During the procedure, you’ll be sedated to keep you comfortable.

Because of that, you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward. Most people feel drowsy for the rest of the day and are advised to take it easy.

But by the next day, most people are back to their usual routine.

> Related: You Had a Positive Cologuard Test. Now What?

Still concerned? Check in with your doctor

And if you have questions or concerns, reach out to your care team. Knowing what to expect ahead of your first colonoscopy can make the process less stressful and help ensure accurate results.

“If something doesn’t feel right before or after the procedure, you should reach out rather than trying to push through symptoms,” Dr. Hebbar says.

Ayer Neuroscience Institute