Bowel screening

Further Tests

This page explains what to expect if you have to have further tests after your Bowel Screening.

If the amount of blood in your poo above normal, you will be asked to attend an appointment at the hospital.

This is for a colonoscopy.

A colonoscopy is an when a health professional looks at your bowel using a thin bendy tube with a camera on the end.

This takes about 30 minutes so you shouldn’t need to stay in hospital for more than a few hours.

The video made by NHS Lothian gives information on having a Colonoscopy.

Before coming to the hospital, you will need to empty your bowel.

You will be given clear instructions about how to do this before your appointment.

Before your appointment, you will receive information on the benefits and risks of a colonoscopy.

It is up to you if you want to go for a colonoscopy.

A health professional will tell you your results before you leave.

You can change your appointment by phoning the number on your letter.

You should phone the number on the letter also if you:

would like to bring someone with you to the test.

have a disability.

need an interpreter or any other help.

have any worries or want to discuss anything about your appointment.