Preparing for a Colonoscopy
You’ve got an important appointment coming up — let’s make sure you’re fully prepared!
Bowel Prep Downloadable Forms Available at the Bottom of this Page.
✅ Check Your Procedure Date
You should have received your colonoscopy date during your office visit. If you:
- Have questions about the date,
- Need to reschedule,
- Or haven’t received a date yet,
Please give us a call at 503-874-0574. We’re here to help.
📝 Preparation Instructions
You were provided detailed prep instructions either as a printed handout, sent in the mail or sent through your MyChart health portal. These instructions are tailored to the specific preparation type your provider recommended.
Please read them carefully — proper preparation is essential to ensure a safe and effective colonoscopy.
Here’s what to expect:
- Clear Liquid Diet:
Starting at 6am the day before your procedure it is required that you start and maintain a clear liquid diet. This means that you are unable to consume solid foods and red or purple liquids. Common clear liquids include water, broth, apple juice, sports drinks, and gelatin.
- Bowel Prep:
You’ll be asked to follow a clear liquid diet the day before your procedure and drink a prescribed laxative solution to empty your bowels. This may involve splitting the dose between the evening before and the morning of the procedure. Follow the instructions provided to you by your provider — DO NOT follow the instructions listed on the box or bottle.
* If you’ve misplaced your instructions or would like another copy, you can download them at the bottom of this page.
- Medication Adjustments:
Your doctor will give you instructions on whether to pause or adjust medications like blood thinners, insulin, or iron supplements. - Arrange Transportation:
Sedation is used during the procedure, so you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.
You can also visit our Colonoscopy Procedure Information Page to learn more about what the procedure involves, why it’s performed, and what to expect before, during, and after your exam.
🧪 Additional Pre-Procedure Requirements
Depending on your medical history, you may also need lab work or an EKG before your colonoscopy. If required, please complete these at least one week before your procedure date.
📞 Questions? We’re Here for You
If anything is unclear or you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Call us at 503-874-0574. Our team is happy to help.
📘 Learn More About Colonoscopies from UpToDate
UpToDate® for Patients: Consult the clinical decision support resource doctors trust.
🔗UpToDate® Patient Education: Colonoscopy (Beyond the Basics)
📥 Download Your Colonoscopy Instructions
Choose the prep type recommended by your provider:
Miralax Prep
Suflave Prep
Sutab Prep
Golytely Prep