How Long Does a Colonoscopy Take? What to Expect and Recovery Tips

How Long A Colonoscopy Takes, Start To Finish

You’re scheduled for a colonoscopy and wondering how long it takes. Here’s the quick answer: most visits last about two to three hours, and the procedure itself takes about 20 to 40 minutes. You’ll check in, meet your care team, get sedation, and rest in recovery before heading home. It’s a common test, and our team guides you at every step.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the day-of timeline so you know what to expect. We’ll share simple tips to feel comfortable afterward, from what to eat to when to get moving. You’ll also learn when to call your care team and how to plan the rest of your day. Let’s make this easy, clear, and stress-free. Here's what you can expect:

What happens before the test

• Check in, review your health history, and change into a gown.
• A nurse starts an intravenous (IV) line.
• Your care team explains the plan and answers questions.
  Takeaway: Expect about 30–60 minutes before the scope begins.

During the colonoscopy

• You receive sedation to help you relax and rest.
• The gastroenterology provider guides a thin scope to view the colon.
• If needed, they remove small polyps or take biopsies.
  Takeaway: The procedure often lasts 20–40 minutes.

Right after the procedure

• You wake in the recovery area while the team monitors you.
• You may feel mild gas or cramping as air passes.
• Your provider reviews results and next steps.
  Takeaway: Recovery room time is often 30–60 minutes.

The rest of your day

• A responsible adult drives you home.
• Plan gentle activity and extra fluids.
• Most people feel normal by the next day.
  Takeaway: Clear your schedule for the day, then ease back into routine tomorrow.

Recovery tips for a smoother day

Hydrate with water, clear broths, or an electrolyte drink, then start with light foods such as soup, toast, eggs, or yogurt. Take brief walks to reduce gas and soreness, and let yourself pass gas—it’s healthy and relieves pressure. Protect your rest with a nap if you feel sleepy after sedation, and save big decisions for another day. Check your medicines, and follow your provider’s plan for blood thinners, diabetes medicines, and supplements.

When to call your care team

Call the same day if you have fever, chills, or worsening belly pain; heavy rectal bleeding or clots; vomiting, fainting, or trouble breathing. Reach out, too, if you’re not improving by the morning after your test.

FAQs

How long should I take off work?
Plan to take the day of the test off. Most people return to work and normal activity the next day.

Will I remember the procedure?
Sedation helps you stay relaxed and often sleepy. Many people remember little to nothing from the procedure.

Can I drive after a colonoscopy?
No driving the day of the test because of sedation. Arrange a ride home and resume driving the next day, once you feel fully alert.

Is bleeding normal after a colonoscopy?
You may see a small amount of blood, especially if a polyp was removed. Call your care team if bleeding becomes heavy or you pass clots.

What can I eat after the test?
Start with liquids and light foods. If you feel well, return to your usual diet later that day or the next morning, based on your provider’s advice.