Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera to examine the lower bowel. It’s gently inserted through the anus and guided by a trained doctor or nurse to check bowel health.
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What is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a simple procedure used to examine the lower part of the large bowel (colon). It involves a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope—about the width of a little finger—with a light and camera at one end.The endoscope is gently inserted through the anus and guided by a trained doctor or nurse (endoscopist) to view the bowel lining and identify any abnormalities. This procedure helps diagnose bowel symptoms or monitor existing conditions.

During the examination, small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken for testing, and any small growths (polyps) can be removed. If needed, a proctoscope may also be used to check or treat haemorrhoids (piles).
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Why You May Have a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

You may be advised to have a flexible sigmoidoscopy if you experience:

Bleeding from the back passage
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Persistent diarrhoea or changes in bowel habits
A strong family history of bowel cancer
An X-ray result that requires further investigation of the lower bowel
An existing bowel condition, such as colitis, that needs review
A referral from your GP to a rectal bleed clinic, where this procedure forms part of the assessment and treatment process

How to Prepare For a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?

To ensure the best results, please follow these preparation guidelines:
  • Food and drink: Avoid eating for 6 hours before your appointment so the doctor can get a clear view. Do not drink anything for 4 hours before, but you may have small sips of water up to 2 hours prior. You may also be given something to empty your bowels with such as laxatives or an enema.
  • Sedation: If you’re having sedation, you must arrange for a responsible adult (over 18) to take you home and stay with you overnight. They can accompany you to your appointment or be available by phone when you’re ready to leave.
  • After sedation: The effects can last up to 24 hours, so during this time, you must not:
    • Drive or cycle
    • Operate machinery
    • Drink alcohol
    Your procedure may be cancelled if you don’t have suitable arrangements for someone to take you home and stay with you. If this is difficult, please contact the endoscopy unit to discuss options.
  • Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothes on the day of your test.
    • Routinely Taken Medications:

    Before your procedure, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss any medications you take with your doctor or nurse.

    If you’re taking blood-thinning medicines (such as aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, rivaroxaban, or dabigatran), it’s important to inform your doctor or nurse before your appointment day.

    These may need to be adjusted for your safety. Please also let your medical team know in advance if you take sedatives, pain medication, or diabetes medicines, as special arrangements may be required.Unless you’ve been specifically advised otherwise by your doctor or nurse, continue taking your usual medications as normal.

    On Arrival at the Endoscopy Unit

    When you arrive, please check in with the receptionist. You’ll be asked to wait in the seating area until a nurse is ready to see you.

    A nurse will review your medical history and ask about any previous reactions or allergies to medications or procedures.

    You’ll be asked to remove jewellery, as metal items should not be worn during the procedure, especially if polyps need to be removed. We recommend leaving valuable items at home, as the unit cannot accept responsibility for lost belongings.

    You’ll then be asked to change into a hospital gown and disposable underwear. You’re welcome to bring your own dressing gown and slippers for comfort.

    Once you’re ready, you’ll move to the second waiting area where your endoscopist will meet you, explain the procedure in more detail, and answer any final questions.
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    Are there any Risks in having a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?

    Serious complications are very rare, occurring in about 1 in 10,000 procedures. Your doctor or specialist nurse will explain any potential risks in more detail, and you’re encouraged to ask questions or raise any concerns beforehand.

    The most significant risk is damage to the bowel from the endoscope, which could lead to infection, bleeding, or a small tear (perforation) in the bowel lining. If this occurs, you may experience abdominal pain or bloating, and in some cases, medication or surgery may be required.

    If a biopsy is taken or a polyp is removed, it’s normal to notice a small amount of bleeding from the back passage for up to 12–24 hours afterward. This is usually minor and temporary.

    In some cases, the procedure may need to be stopped or repeated—for example, if the bowel isn’t fully clear or if you find it too uncomfortable. If so, your doctor will discuss next steps or alternative options.

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    Our Testing Process

    At Gut Diagnostics, a flexible sigmoidoscopy is a routine procedure used to examine the lower part of the large bowel. This test allows your consultant to view the bowel lining directly and detect conditions such as polyps, inflammation, or other abnormalities. After the procedure, your results will be reviewed carefully, and if necessary, a personalised plan will be provided to support your ongoing bowel health and 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 Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

    To examine the lower bowel, you may have a flexible sigmoidoscopy, which uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at the tip. The scope is gently inserted through the anus to provide clear images of the bowel lining, allowing your consultant to assess the lower colon. During the procedure, polyps can be removed, and small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken for further analysis. Your consultant will review the results carefully to provide an accurate diagnosis and outline 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."
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    16 January 2025
    "A high level of skill coupled with a calm professionalism made my first colonoscopy a relatively straightforward experience."
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    06 November 2025
    "Excellent service from initial consultation through to my procedure."
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    "A very useful experience everything explained well, no problems, pleasant Doctor."
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    02 February 2026
    "My visit was well organised with a brief consultation and blood test."
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    11 August 2025
    "I am very pleased with every aspect of the treatment and care I received."
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    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."
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    25 June 2025
    "Wonderful experience from start to finish. Everything was explained very clearly and reassuring."
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    13 June 2025
    Throughout all this he has been very professional, friendly and extremely supportive. It all was a very positive experience. Thank you.
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    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!
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    6 December 2025
    "The water based technique for colonoscopy enabled me to be cured without trauma of surgery. I am eternally grateful."
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    24 November 2025
    "All the staff were amazing, friendly and professional."
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    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."
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    31 October 2025
    "Outstanding care throughout, I can highly recommend him."
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    "I would definitely recommend and thank them for the care and attention"
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    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 Flexible Sigmoidoscopy 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.

    Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

    Private Flexible Sigmoidoscopy 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 flexible sigmoidoscopy?
    A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that examines the lower part of your large bowel using a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera. It helps doctors check for conditions such as polyps, inflammation, or other bowel abnormalities.
    Why might I need a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
    You may be advised to have this procedure if you have symptoms like bleeding from the back passage, persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or a strong family history of bowel cancer. It can also monitor existing conditions such as colitis.
    How should I prepare for the procedure?
    You should not eat for 6 hours before and avoid drinks for 4 hours (small sips of water are allowed up to 2 hours prior). If you’re having sedation, you’ll need someone over 18 to take you home and stay with you overnight. Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day.
    Can I take my usual medicines?
    Continue your regular medications unless your doctor advises otherwise. Make sure to inform your doctor if you take blood-thinning medicines, diabetes medications, sedatives, or strong pain relief, as special arrangements may be needed.
    What happens during the procedure?
    The endoscopist gently inserts the flexible tube through your anus and examines the lower bowel. Small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken, and polyps can be removed. A proctoscope may also be used to check or treat haemorrhoids if necessary.
    Is the procedure painful?
    You may feel mild discomfort, bloating, or cramping, but most people tolerate the procedure well. Sedation may be offered to help you feel more relaxed.
    Are there any risks?
    Serious complications are very rare (about 1 in 10,000). Risks include minor bleeding, a tear in the bowel lining, or infection. Small amounts of bleeding may occur if biopsies are taken or polyps removed. Your doctor will discuss any concerns beforehand.
    When will I get my results?
    Your consultant will review any findings, including biopsies or polyp removals, and provide a detailed report. They will explain the results and outline any next steps or treatment plans needed to manage your bowel health.

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    Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.
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    Our Flagship Clinic

    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.

    Our specialists are here to guide you on your journey to better digestive health.
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