Get fast access to a private colonoscopy in Blackburn
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the inside of your large bowel (colon) and rectum.
Conditions affecting your bowel and lower digestive system can cause significant discomfort, disruption to daily life and understandable concern.
At The Beardwood Hospital, private colonoscopy services in Blackburn provide fast access to specialist investigation and diagnosis in a safe, professional, and supportive environment.
Colonoscopy plays an important role in identifying the cause of bowel symptoms and detecting conditions affecting the colon at an early stage. You might be referred for a colonoscopy because of persistent digestive symptoms, unexplained abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits.
A colonoscopy is performed by highly trained specialist consultants with expertise in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the digestive system. This is most commonly a consultant gastroenterologist, a doctor who specialises in the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, intestines and bowel.
In some cases, a colorectal surgeon may also perform a colonoscopy, particularly if the procedure is part of a wider investigation or treatment plan involving the bowel. Both specialists are experienced in endoscopic procedures and are trained to carry out colonoscopies safely and effectively.
A colonoscopy may be recommended to investigate a wide range of bowel-related symptoms or concerns. The procedure allows your consultant to examine the lining of the bowel closely and identify potential abnormalities affecting the colon or rectum.
Common reasons for referral include:
Colonoscopy may also be used as part of ongoing monitoring for bowel conditions or following previous treatment.
Your consultant will explain why the procedure has been recommended and how it may help identify or rule out possible causes of your symptoms.
The cost of your colonoscopy will depend on the details of the procedure and whether it’s part of a wider treatment plan. You’ll be told the exact price before booking, along with a breakdown of costs.
You can choose to fund your treatment through self-pay (paying for yourself) or use private health insurance. We work with most major providers, and our friendly advisory team can help guide you through using your cover.
Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a time period that suits you. We offer fixed-term monthly payment plans over one to five years with no deposit required. If you decide to pay over 10 months, you will pay interest-free. If you are paying for a longer period, you will pay 9.9% APR.
Proper preparation is an important part of a successful colonoscopy, as the bowel must be fully cleared to allow accurate examination of the colon lining.
Before your procedure, you will receive detailed preparation instructions from your care team. This usually includes following a specific diet for a short period and taking bowel preparation medication to empty the bowel.
Your preparation instructions may include:
It is important to follow all preparation instructions carefully, as incomplete bowel preparation can affect the accuracy of the examination and may require the procedure to be repeated.
Your care team will explain what to expect throughout the preparation process and provide support if you have any questions.
A colonoscopy involves passing a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope into the rectum and through the large bowel. The colonoscope contains a small camera and light, which transmits detailed images to a screen and allows your consultant to examine the bowel lining closely.
The procedure is usually performed using sedation or pain relief medication to help you feel relaxed and comfortable throughout the examination.
During the procedure, air or carbon dioxide is gently introduced into your bowel to improve visibility and allow a clearer assessment of the colon. If abnormalities such as polyps are identified, these can often be removed or biopsied during the same procedure for further laboratory testing.
A colonoscopy typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes, although this can vary depending on the individual and whether additional procedures are required.
A colonoscopy can help identify a wide range of bowel conditions and abnormalities affecting the large intestine and rectum.
Conditions that may be identified during colonoscopy include:
If abnormalities are found during the procedure, biopsies may be taken for further analysis. Your consultant will explain any findings clearly and discuss whether further investigations or treatment may be required.
Early detection and investigation can play an important role in supporting effective bowel health management and treatment planning.
After your colonoscopy, you will spend time in a recovery area while the effects of sedation gradually wear off. Most patients are able to return home the same day, although you will need somebody to accompany you if sedation has been used.
You may experience mild bloating, cramping, or discomfort for a short time after the procedure due to the air introduced into the bowel during the examination. These symptoms usually settle quickly.
Your consultant will often discuss any initial findings with you before you leave the hospital and explain when full biopsy or laboratory results will be available if samples were taken.
Written aftercare instructions will also be provided, including advice about eating, activity levels, and when to seek medical advice if needed.
Recovery from a colonoscopy is usually straightforward and relatively quick. Most patients feel able to return to normal daily activities within 24 hours.
If sedation was used, you should avoid driving, operating machinery, drinking alcohol, or making important decisions for the remainder of the day.
Your care team will provide personalised advice based on your procedure and recovery, helping ensure you feel comfortable and supported after returning home.
Colonoscopy is a well-established and generally safe procedure when performed by experienced clinicians in a regulated clinical setting. As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, although serious complications are uncommon.
Possible risks can include:
At The Beardwood Hospital, patient safety is prioritised throughout every stage of your care. Thorough pre-procedure assessments are carried out, and procedures follow strict clinical standards and safety protocols.
Your consultant will explain the risks and benefits clearly before your procedure so you can make an informed decision about your care.
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
Going private for healthcare provides faster access to a vast range of treatment options, greater flexibility in choosing specialists, and more personalised care.
To book a colonoscopy at The Beardwood Hospital, you will often need a referral from a GP or other healthcare professional. Whether you are a private or NHS patient, your GP can refer you to our hospital to have your colonoscopy. We will then send the results back to your GP.
If you are already a patient at Beardwood and you need a colonoscopy, your consultant will refer you to our endoscopy team to arrange the procedure.
If you don’t have a referral but believe you need a colonoscopy, give us a call. We can either book your procedure directly or, if necessary, arrange a consultation with a specialist first.
Reception: 01254 507607
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