Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Quick & Effective Examination of the Lower Bowel
Noticing changes in your bowel habits or tummy pain? At South East Gastroenterology & Endoscopy clinic in Melbourne, a flexible sigmoidoscopy is a quick, gentle way to examine your lower bowel and get answers. Let’s explain what it is, when it’s needed, and how we make it easy for you.
What is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a simple procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside the lower part of your colon (sigmoid colon and rectum). It helps spot issues like inflammation, polyps, bleeding, or early signs of bowel problems.
With Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne, this fast test is done in our Melbourne clinic, often without sedation, so you’re back to your day with minimal fuss.
When is it Recommended?
A flexible sigmoidoscopy can help figure out what’s causing bowel symptoms or keep your health in check. Your GP or specialist might suggest Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne if you’re experiencing:
- Blood in your poo
- Ongoing diarrhoea or constipation
- Lower tummy pain
- A family history of bowel cancer
- Routine bowel cancer screening when a full colonoscopy isn’t needed
It’s a great way to catch problems early and get the right care.
How We Can Help
At South East Gastroenterology & Endoscopy clinic, we’re here to make your Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne comfortable and straightforward. Here’s what you can expect:
Clear Diagnosis
We get a direct view of your lower bowel to spot any issues, like inflammation or polyps, right away.
Testing if Needed
We can take tiny tissue samples (biopsies) during the procedure to check for infections or other conditions.
Care You Can Trust
We walk you through every step, answer your questions, and ensure you feel supported before and after.
What to Expect
Here’s a quick look at how Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne works:
- Before: You might need a light bowel prep, like an enema. We’ll send simple instructions.
- During: The procedure takes 15–20 minutes, usually without sedation, and feels like mild pressure.
- After: You can get back to your day almost immediately. Results are shared quickly, with biopsy results in a few days if needed.
Book Your Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Today
Don’t let bowel symptoms worry you. A Flexible Sigmoidoscopy at South East Gastroenterology & Endoscopy clinic with Dr Chris Desmond can give you clear answers and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be sedated for a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Usually not with Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne. It’s quick, with minimal discomfort, so you recover faster without sedation.
How’s it different from a colonoscopy?
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne checks just the lower bowel (sigmoid colon and rectum), while a colonoscopy looks at the whole colon. We’ll pick the right test for you.
What symptoms mean I need it?
Symptoms like blood in your poo, diarrhoea, constipation, or lower tummy pain might call for a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne. It’s also used for screening if you have a family history of bowel issues.
Can polyps be removed?
Sometimes, small polyps can be removed during Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne. If larger ones are found, Dr Desmond might suggest a colonoscopy for full treatment.
How do I prepare?
Prep for Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne is easy—usually a light enema or bowel prep. We’ll give you clear steps to follow.
Can it detect bowel cancer?
Yes, Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne can spot early signs in the lower bowel. If we need to check the whole colon, we might suggest a colonoscopy.
Is there a risk of complications?
Risks are very low with Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne. You might feel mild bloating or cramping, but it passes quickly.
How soon do I get results?
You’ll get initial findings right after Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne, with biopsy results (if taken) in a few days.
What if something’s found?
If Dr Desmond spots anything during Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Melbourne, he’ll explain it clearly and plan next steps, like treatment or further tests.
