Ditch the Drink: Use Colonics to Prep for Your Colonoscopy

Colonoscopies are necessary to catch potential health issues early. But how many of us avoid them like the plague? As someone who’s done two colonoscopies, I share the common view that the prep is the worst part. It’s frankly disgusting. A recent study that sought to document the colonoscopy experience and potential deterrents to repeating them showed bowel preparation is the worst part of the colonoscopy experience for the majority and the main reason people won’t do them again.

How many people would do them if they knew that could use colonics as an alternative to the icky liquid prep? This is hardly a new idea.

Danbury Hospital in Connecticut pioneered the use of colon hydrotherapy as an alternative method for colonoscopy preparation. In 2008, it became the first hospital in the nation to offer this procedure, which involves infusing warm, filtered water into the colon to cleanse it prior to a colonoscopy.

This approach was introduced to address common patient concerns associated with traditional bowel prep methods, such as the discomfort and inconvenience of consuming large volumes of liquid laxatives. A Danbury Hospital study compared the efficacy and patient acceptance of colon hydrotherapy with traditional methods like polyethylene glycol-electrolyte lavage (PEG-ES) and aqueous sodium phosphate (ASP). The findings indicated that colon hydrotherapy provided superior colon cleansing and was preferred by patients for its ease, convenience, and comfort.

Following these positive outcomes, Danbury Hospital expanded its use of colon hydrotherapy, making it the most requested preparation method when patients were given a choice.

Building on the success at Danbury Hospital, where colon hydrotherapy became a highly requested option for colonoscopy preparation, this innovative approach is now available on the North Shore. Wellness by the Sea offers a gentle and effective alternative to traditional colonoscopy prep methods, ensuring your colon is fully cleansed and ready for your procedure. Whether you're seeking a more natural approach or have difficulty tolerating conventional preparations, we’re here to support your health journey.