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A sigmoidoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the rectum and the sigmoid colon, which is the lower part of the large intestine. It helps detect and diagnose various gastrointestinal conditions, including colorectal cancer, polyps, and inflammatory bowel disease. There are two types: flexible sigmoidoscopy, which uses a flexible tube, and rigid sigmoidoscopy, which uses a rigid instrument.
Sigmoidoscopy is often performed to evaluate symptoms like rectal bleeding, altered bowel habits, abdominal pain, or screening for colorectal cancer. During history-taking, clinicians assess gastrointestinal symptoms, family history of colorectal diseases, medication use (e.g., anticoagulants), and any prior endoscopic procedures. Clinical examination includes vital signs, abdominal palpation for tenderness or masses, and a digital rectal exam to assess tone, masses, or blood. A proper bowel preparation history is vital for clear visualization. The findings guide whether flexible or rigid sigmoidoscopy is appropriate. Overall, a thorough history and examination help determine the need, urgency, and safety of performing sigmoidoscopy.
Colorectal polyps – benign growths that can potentially become cancerous
Colorectal cancer – early detection and diagnosis of tumors
Ulcerative colitis – inflammation and ulcers in the colon lining
Crohn’s disease – chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract
Diverticulosis – small pouches in the colon wall
Bleeding sources – investigation of rectal or lower GI bleeding
Chronic diarrhea – evaluation of persistent bowel issues
A sigmoidoscopy is one type of test used to screen for colon and rectal cancers. Health experts recommend that both men and women follow a colon and rectal cancer screening schedule starting at age 50.
A sigmoidoscopy is typically not painful, but it may cause some mild discomfort or cramping, similar to the feeling of needing to pass gas or having a bowel movement, according to gastroenterology specialists. The procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the rectum and sigmoid colon to examine the lining of the lower part of the large intestine. While some individuals may experience mild cramping or bloating as air is introduced into the colon to improve visibility, these sensations usually subside shortly after the procedure
Most people feel back to normal after 24 hours. After your flexible sigmoidoscopy, you may feel some discomfort from trapped air. This should settle down within a few hours. To help pass the wind, we suggest, if possible, that you walk around, drink warm drinks or peppermint water or that you eat some peppermints.
As long as you are passing wind and going to toilet, this will settle down. There is a small risk of bleeding from the bottom after sigmoidoscopy. The entrance to your bottom, the anus, does have a very good blood supply and this is where piles are often found. The insertion of the camera can cause a little bleeding.