Colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer diagnosed in women. Therefore, routine colonoscopies are essential to detect cancer early and potentially cure it before it has the chance to spread throughout the body. Colon cancer is also one of the few cancers that can be almost entirely prevented with proper screening.
While both men and women should begin colon cancer screening starting at age 45, some women may have heard that the procedure is different for them. Here is everything you need to know about the female colonoscopy procedure.
Colonoscopies are recommended for all women starting at 45, as they can significantly reduce the risk of colon cancer. During a colonoscopy, your doctor will ensure all pre-cancerous polyps or growths are removed so that they can no longer turn into cancer.
If your colonoscopy is normal, meaning no concerning polyps were found, then follow-up screenings are done every ten years. If your doctor finds any polyps that could potentially grow into cancer, they may recommend that you return for your next exam a little sooner, typically within 3-5 years, to ensure that you do not develop colon cancer.
Colonoscopies are performed as outpatient procedures under general anesthesia or sedation. During the procedure, your doctor will insert a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope into your rectum. The colonoscope has a small light and camera attached to the end so that your doctor can visualize the inside of your colon. The scope is gently threaded throughout the entire length of your colon to check for any abnormal polyps or growths. If your doctor finds any polyps, they will be removed using special tools fed through the colonoscope and sent to the lab for further evaluation.
The colonoscopy procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes to complete, and once you wake up from anesthesia, you can go home to rest. Most people feel well enough to resume their normal activities the same day as the procedure, although your doctor may recommend that you avoid any strenuous activity.
Some women may wonder if there is any difference between a colonoscopy for men and women. The truth is, there really is no difference in how the procedure is performed based on your gender.
Women do have colons that are about four inches longer than a man’s. This increased length, paired with women’s generally smaller statures, means the colon may have more curves and bends to thread the colonoscope through.
However, your gastroenterologist will be well-prepared for this. Your experience of the female colonoscopy procedure will be no different from that of a male colonoscopy.
Everyone needs a colonoscopy at some point in their life. Whether you are male or female, your first one should be at age 45. If you have concerns about the procedure and how it may be different for you, your doctor can answer all your questions and help you feel prepared for this necessary procedure.
Don’t delay any further – schedule your colonoscopy appointment today!
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