A colonoscopy is a routine procedure used to screen for colorectal cancer and other digestive issues. During the procedure, a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope is inserted into the rectum to view the entire colon and rectum. The preparation for a colonoscopy involves taking strong laxatives or enemas to completely clean out the bowels beforehand. This allows the doctor to have a clear view during the colonoscopy. After having this procedure, it typically takes 2 to 4 days for bowel movements to return to normal.
How is bowel prep done before colonoscopy?
Before a colonoscopy, patients need to thoroughly cleanse their bowels through a process called bowel prep. This involves:
- Following a clear liquid diet for 1 to 3 days before the procedure. This may include things like clear broth, plain gelatin, strained fruit juices without pulp, black coffee, and sports drinks.
- Taking laxatives or enemas. These help clear out all solid matter from the colon.
- Drinking large amounts of an oral laxative solution. This flush out any remaining stool.
Bowel prep makes the intestines empty so the gastroenterologist can clearly view the lining of the colon and rectum during the colonoscopy. Without proper cleansing, stool could obstruct the camera view.
How long does it take for bowel movements to return to normal?
After colonoscopy prep completely empties out the bowels, it takes some time for bowel movements to get back to normal. Here is an overview:
- Immediately after the colonoscopy: You will expel the air pumped into the colon during the procedure. You may continue to pass watery stool due to the laxatives.
- In the first 24 hours: You will have soft, semi-formed stools as your colon starts moving again. Bowel movements may increase as the laxatives flush out.
- In 2 to 4 days: Bowel movements and stool consistency usually return to normal.
However, timeframes vary. Some people may have normal bowel movements within 1 to 2 days. For others, it may take up to a week for stool to regain its regular consistency and frequency.
Factors affecting return to normal bowel movements
Several factors influence how quickly bowel movements return to normal after colonoscopy prep, including:
Type of prep used
Certain strong laxatives and enemas used for bowel cleansing can stimulate intestinal contractions. This may result in cramps and prolonged diarrhea that can persist even after colonoscopy. More gentle laxatives are less likely to cause diarrhea lasting more than a day.
Individual differences
Each person’s digestive system responds differently to colonoscopy prep. Some rebound quickly while others take longer for bowel motility and stool formation to normalize after being flushed out.
Diet after colonoscopy
Eating a light, low-fiber diet for 1 to 2 days after the colonoscopy can help reduce stool bulkiness as the colon recovers. Fibrous vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts, and prunes should be avoided initially. Drink plenty of fluids.
Medications
Certain prescription medications like antibiotics and laxatives may cause loose stools, gas, or diarrhea. Follow your doctor’s instructions on restarting regular medications after colonoscopy.
Colon health
Factors like colon surgery, abdominal adhesions, diverticulosis, or medical conditions affecting digestion and absorption may prolong the return to normal stools after colonoscopy prep.
Tips for getting back to normal bowel movements
Here are some helpful tips for resetting your digestive system after a colonoscopy:
Rehydrate
Drink plenty of water and electrolyte drinks like coconut water or sports drinks to rehydrate. Colonoscopy prep can cause fluid loss through diarrhea.
Eat small, light meals
Go slow with eating after colonoscopy and start with small portions of bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. Too much fiber, fat or spice can overwork your recovering colon.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol can stimulate the colon and lead to loose bowel movements after colonoscopy prep. Avoid these in the first 48 hours.
Take probiotic supplements
Probiotics containing healthy gut bacteria can help restore normal bowel function and stool consistency. Ask your doctor if probiotic supplements are recommended.
Exercise lightly
Light movement can stimulate the digestive tract and get things moving again after colonoscopy. Take short, gentle walks. Avoid strenuous activity.
Be patient
It takes time for bowel movements to normalize after colon cleansing. Don’t worry if it takes 3 to 4 days. Contact your doctor if diarrhea lasts more than 2 days.
When to call your doctor
You should call your doctor if you experience:
- No bowel movement by 3 days after the colonoscopy
- Fever over 101°F
- Blood in the stool
- Intense or worsening abdominal pain
- Persistent diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, weakness, or fatigue
These could signal complications and may require medical attention. Most people recover within a few days and resume normal bowel movements. But don’t hesitate to call your doctor with any concerns after the colonoscopy.
Conclusion
It typically takes 2 to 4 days for bowel movements to return to normal following colonoscopy prep. The powerful laxatives used before colonoscopy to cleanse the bowels can cause some lingering loose stools and diarrhea afterwards. Stay well hydrated, follow a bland, low-fiber diet, and avoid caffeine and alcohol. Probiotics and light exercise also help transition the digestive system back to regular function. While it varies by individual, bowel movements usually normalize within 72 hours, though it may take up to a week. Call your doctor if diarrhea lasts more than 2 days or you experience concerning symptoms like fever or bloody stool. Be patient as your colon recovers and gets back to business as usual after colonoscopy.