Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a commonly performed procedure used to examine the lower bowel. This endoscopic test enables the doctor to view the bowel lining directly, helping to detect conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, polyps, and cancer.
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What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is performed using a colonoscope, a long, flexible tube with a light and camera at the tip. The scope is gently inserted through the anus, allowing the doctor to view detailed images of the inside of your bowel on a screen. In most cases, the entire colon can be examined, and sometimes the final section of the small intestine (the terminal ileum) as well.

During the procedure, the doctor can remove growths called polyps using specialized tools passed through the scope. Tissue samples, known as biopsies, can also be taken from both normal and abnormal areas for further analysis.
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What is the Purpose of a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is an important procedure used to investigate and diagnose various gastrointestinal symptoms. Doctors often recommend it when there are unexplained changes in bowel habits or signs that may need closer examination.

When a Colonoscopy Is Recommended

You may be referred for a colonoscopy if you’re experiencing:

Persistent constipation or diarrhoea

Frequent changes in bowel habits

Ongoing abdominal pain

Rectal bleeding

Unexplained weight loss

During the procedure, doctors can take small tissue samples (biopsies) from the colon lining to look for inflammation, infection, or abnormal cell changes, including early signs of cancer. The procedure also allows for the identification and removal of polyps—small growths that, if left untreated, may develop into colorectal cancer.

Overall, a colonoscopy serves as both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. It provides a clear view of the bowel while enabling doctors to take immediate action if anything unusual is found.

Do I need any Preparation Before my Colonoscopy?

You will be given detailed written instructions before your colonoscopy. To prepare, you will need to take strong laxatives to empty your bowel. It is very important to follow these directions carefully and drink plenty of clear fluids. A clean bowel ensures the doctor can see the lining clearly and carry out an accurate examination. For the procedure, you will receive sedation or, in some cases, a light anaesthetic.

You will also be advised when to stop drinking beforehand, and it is essential that you follow this guidance closely.Please let your doctor know if you have diabetes or if you are taking any medication that affects blood clotting, such as Aspirin, Clopidogrel, or Warfarin.

Are there any Risks in having a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a routine and generally safe procedure, and serious complications are uncommon. However, as with any medical test, there are some risks you should be aware of:

  • Perforation (tear) of the bowel – This is very rare but can happen.
  • Bleeding – If a polyp is removed or a biopsy is taken, some bleeding may occur at the site. In most cases this is minor and either stops on its own or can be treated during the procedure with a heat probe or an injection.
  • Sedation side effects – If you are given sedation, there is a very small chance of side effects such as changes in breathing, blood pressure, or heart rate. These are usually short-lived and can be quickly treated by the medical team.
  • Incomplete procedure – Occasionally, the doctor may not be able to examine the whole bowel. If this happens, the procedure may need to be repeated.

After your colonoscopy, if you experience severe abdominal pain or persistent bleeding, you should seek medical help immediately by contacting your GP, the hospital, or attending your local A&E department.

What Happens Afterwards?

A colonoscopy usually takes around 30 minutes to complete, although the duration can vary if polyps are removed or biopsies are taken. After the procedure, it’s normal to feel slightly bloated, gassy, or experience mild cramping. These sensations occur because air is used to inflate the bowel for better visibility. Most discomfort settles within a few hours.

What to Expect After the Procedure

You may experience:

Bloating or excess gas

Mild cramping or wind-like pains

Temporary drowsiness from sedation

A small amount of bleeding (rare, usually only if polyps were removed)

Because sedation is used, you’ll need time to recover before going home. The team will monitor you until you’re fully awake, and you won’t be able to drive, operate machinery, or drink alcohol for the rest of the day—so arrange for someone to take you home and stay with you if possible.

Most initial results are discussed right after the procedure. Biopsy results usually take a few days and will be shared by your healthcare team. If polyps were removed, you may receive extra aftercare advice. Most people return to normal activities the next day, though it’s best to rest for the remainder of the day.
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Our Testing Process

At Gut Diagnostics, a colonoscopy is a routine procedure used to assess the lower bowel. This endoscopic test allows your consultant to view the bowel lining directly and identify conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, polyps, or cancer. Following the procedure, your results will be carefully reviewed and, if needed, a personalised treatment plan will be created to support your health and ongoing care.
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Book your appointment

If you’ve been referred by your GP or another healthcare professional, you can book directly with us. If you don’t yet have a referral, our team can advise you on how to arrange one.

Attend your Colonoscopy

To examine the lower bowel, you may undergo a colonoscopy using a colonoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at the tip. The scope is gently passed through the anus to provide clear images of the bowel lining on a screen, allowing the consultant to assess the entire colon and sometimes the last part of the small intestine (the terminal ileum). During the procedure, polyps can be removed using specialised instruments, and small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken from normal or abnormal areas for further analysis. Your consultant will review these findings in detail to give you an accurate diagnosis and plan any next steps in your care.

Receive your results and personalised report

In most cases, the consultant can discuss the initial results with you straight after the procedure. If tissue samples (biopsies) have been taken, these will be sent to the laboratory for further examination by a pathologist. The results are usually available within a few days, and your healthcare team will let you know how and when you’ll receive them.

See what our patients have to say.

"On time, clear & precise , I felt relaxed and comfortable , and he was easy to speak to."
Verified on Doctify
16 January 2025
"A high level of skill coupled with a calm professionalism made my first colonoscopy a relatively straightforward experience."
Verified on Doctify
06 November 2025
"Excellent service from initial consultation through to my procedure."
Verified on Doctify
12 November 2025
"A very useful experience everything explained well, no problems, pleasant Doctor."
Verified on Doctify
02 February 2026
"My visit was well organised with a brief consultation and blood test."
Verified on Doctify
11 August 2025
"I am very pleased with every aspect of the treatment and care I received."
Verified on Doctify
25 July 2025
"I was worried coming in but everyone was very welcoming and made me relax and the procedure was much quicker than expected."
Verified on Doctify
25 June 2025
"Wonderful experience from start to finish. Everything was explained very clearly and reassuring."
Verified on Doctify
13 June 2025
Throughout all this he has been very professional, friendly and extremely supportive. It all was a very positive experience. Thank you.
Verified on Top Doctors
11 December 2025
One of the few doctors I have seen whom I truly feel listened to, empathised with and whom I can trust to look after my health and get to the bottom of what's wrong. Thank you so much!
Verified on Top Doctors
6 December 2025
"The water based technique for colonoscopy enabled me to be cured without trauma of surgery. I am eternally grateful."
Verified on Top Doctors
24 November 2025
"All the staff were amazing, friendly and professional."
Verified on Top Doctors
21 November 2025
"Professional, calm, and reassuring, explained everything clearly, and I didn’t feel a thing. Outstanding care throughout, I can highly recommend him."
Verified on Top Doctors
31 October 2025
"Outstanding care throughout, I can highly recommend him."
Verified on Top Doctors
31 October 2025
"I would definitely recommend and thank them for the care and attention"
Verified on Top Doctors
12 October 2025
"Very personable and professional from the start and made me feel at ease immediately. He’s quickly got me through the process and I couldnt be more impressed."
Verified on Top Doctors
9 October 2025

How much does a Colonoscopy Cost?

Simple, transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Paying for yourself
You don’t need private medical insurance to be treated at Gut Diagnostics. As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, high-quality healthcare at times that work best for you.

You don't need a referral from your GP or specialist. We provide comprehensive consultations to ensure the test is right for you. The self-pay route makes the process much simpler — there’s no need for insurance authorisation, and you’ll benefit from a wider choice of consultants and more flexible appointment times.
Paid by insurance
Gut Diagnostics is recognised by all major health insurance providers. If you have a personal policy, or cover arranged through your employer, you can use it to pay for your care — from your first consultation through to treatment, surgery, and aftercare such as physiotherapy.

As policies vary, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to confirm exactly what is included in your cover before starting treatment.

Colonoscopy

Private Colonoscopy at Gut Diagnostics costs £2,355
£2,355
INCLUDES
Your fee includes the procedure as well as:
Initial consultation
Personalised referral letter
Monitoring and support
High-resolution images
Comprehensive report
Priority scheduling
Treatment advice
Coordination with specialist
Follow-up consultation
Safe hospital environment
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Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the product and billing.
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera (a colonoscope) to examine the lining of your large intestine (colon) and sometimes the end of the small intestine. It helps detect conditions such as polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, and bowel cancer.
Why might I need a colonoscopy?
Doctors usually recommend a colonoscopy to investigate symptoms such as changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea or constipation), blood in the stool, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. It is also used for routine bowel cancer screening or to monitor existing conditions.
How should I prepare for a colonoscopy?
You will be given written instructions before the procedure. This usually includes taking a strong laxative to empty your bowel and drinking plenty of clear fluids. Following the preparation guidelines carefully is important to ensure the doctor gets a clear view of the bowel lining.
Will I be asleep during the procedure?
Most people receive sedation or a light anaesthetic to help them feel relaxed and comfortable. You may feel drowsy, but you should not feel pain. Some patients choose to have the procedure without sedation, though this is less common.
How long does the procedure take?
A colonoscopy usually takes around 20 to 40 minutes. You will also need some time afterwards to recover from the sedation before going home, so you should plan to be at the clinic or hospital for a few hours.
What are the possible risks?
Colonoscopy is a very safe and commonly performed test. Complications are rare but can include bleeding (especially if polyps are removed) or, very rarely, a small tear in the bowel wall (perforation). Side effects from sedation, such as low blood pressure or breathing problems, are also uncommon.
What happens after the procedure?
You may feel bloated or have some wind-like discomfort, but this usually passes quickly. If you had sedation, you’ll need someone to take you home and stay with you for 24 hours. The consultant will usually explain the results straight away, although biopsy results may take a few days.
When should I seek medical help after a colonoscopy?
Contact your doctor or go to A&E immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent heavy bleeding, or fever after the procedure. These symptoms are rare but need urgent attention.

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At Gut Diagnostics, we are a dedicated team of gut health specialists, bringing together advanced diagnostics and compassionate care.

Our flagship clinic is proudly based at The Priory Hospital, a renowned centre of medical excellence. This prestigious setting provides our patients with access to state-of-the-art facilities, a safe and regulated environment, and the support of a leading multidisciplinary healthcare team.

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