"Sigmoidoscopy at Nottingham City Hospital - easy!"

I had worried for quite a long time about having a sigmoidoscopy, thinking how awful it must be. The reason I am writing this is to reassure anyone who is going to undergo this procedure that it is far far easier than I had ever imagined.

I elected to receive a phosphate enema, which I had been dreading. However, I was treated very respectfully, led into a private room where everything was carefully explained to me. I wore a gown but kept all my upper body clothes on. I was given a sheet to preserve my dignity. The enema was fine, I was left in the room on my own for as long as it took to work. The room had a toilet, bidet and washing facilities and I was left on my own until after the enema had taken effect. Once I was ready I left the room to sit in the waiting area.

The scope itself was painless only being mildly uncomfortable at times. All the staff were cheerful and respectful - if in any doubt don't worry, it is a piece of cake!