I've actually had to have several because I also have IBS. It's not a fun experience, but you can get through it. The prep the day before is the worst part of the whole experience. Once you get through that everything else is nothing. Here is a link to an article from The Endometriosis Association on how to survive the bowel prep the day before.

http://www.endometriosis.org/bowelprep.html

One thing that I've found extremely valuable during the times that I've had to do a bowel prep is to have a bottle of Balneol with me. This is a cleansing cream that helps alot because you will be sore. I have used Balneol for 22 years. This stuff is like gold to me. I keep a bottle in my purse, and in each bathroom of the house.

If you have any questions please send me an email. I'd be glad to help in any way.

~ Kristie

I had a colonoscopy due to bowel problems. I insisted it was endometriosis and after getting the colonoscopy I discovered that endometriosis is ONLY viewable on a colonoscopy if the endo has completely gone through your bowel (which is rare).
The colonoscopy was horribly painful, but I am told this is not normal. I have bowel endo (adhesions attaching my bowel to my uterus) so they tore when they did the colonoscopy. If it hurts, holler for more drugs, as you can get them. After they did it the gastro dr. said 'There is nothing wrong with you'.

She is right, the prep is the worst part, You just go to the bathroom for 10 hours straight, so stay at home, get a good book and lots of liquids. Follow the diet carefully (ie. no coloured foods for a week before, no nuts or seeds etc.).

Make certain the reasons they are doing this, although it is helpful to rule out other diagnosis I found. I am very angry I had it done by doctors because when I saw my surgeon afterwards (who did not order it), he literally laughed and said 'you cannot view endo with a colonoscopy' and then proceeded to do a lap and discovered I had severe bowel adhesions.

Thanks so much both of you......I did not know that either although I did not realize it could spread all over the body like it has, but I think the reason for they want me to have the colonoscopy besides to check for endo is due to the fact I just had my appendix out and of course it was covered with it but I also had alot of blood in my stool.....so I am really praying they don't find anything else.........thanks for the advice on the website too it was helpful

Blood in my stool was why they did mine. They never totally explained why it happens despite endo being on the outside, not inside. Bit hopefully you are like me and nothing is wrong inside.

Good luck and tell us how it goes.

my bowel prep was easy ! except feeling hungry and weak.
but i did not have to run to the loo at all, in fact i had to squeeze for it to come, it was how it was supposed to be though... all watery / liquid.
and i did my first bowel motion about 8 hours after the first lax drink.
i didnt go too many times all in all actually.
i found it strange that it was not that bad, as i am of tiny build.

thought i would add my not so bad experience from it...
xx

hello

Yes, I have had colonoscopies too. It is different for everyone. it can be uncomfortable, but is not meant to be painful (unless you have adhesions, like i did). Yep, the bowel prep is the nastiest part of all, but drink plenty of fluids. I'm sure you will be just fine. I wish you well :)