26.10.2026

Colonoscopy: Does It Hurt?

The fear of pain deters many people from getting screened

By Dr. med. André Kugener
There’s hardly a question gastroenterologists are asked more often than this one: “Does a colonoscopy hurt?”

For many people, the thought of a colonoscopy is unpleasant. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of painful procedures or bad experiences from the past. The good news is that modern colonoscopies have very little in common with the procedures performed a few decades ago.

Why colonoscopies used to be uncomfortable

In fact, the procedure used to be much more uncomfortable than it is today. The technical capabilities were significantly more limited, and anesthesia was often very light or, in some cases, not used at all.

As a result, the procedures could be uncomfortable or even painful for patients.

For many people, these experiences still shape their perception of colonoscopy today, even though the procedure has changed fundamentally since then.

Modern colonoscopies are generally painless

Today, colonoscopies are usually performed under sedation. This means that patients are asleep during the procedure and are barely aware of it, if at all.
Many even report after the procedure that they were surprised at how quickly it was over.

Typical comments include:

“Is it really over already?”
“I didn’t notice a thing.”
“I would have worried much more than I needed to.”

For most people, the procedure itself is therefore much less stressful than they feared.

The Real Challenge: Preparation

If you ask gastroenterologists what patients find most unpleasant, you’ll often get the same answer: bowel preparation.

Before a colonoscopy, the colon must be thoroughly cleansed. To do this, patients drink a special solution that completely empties the colon.

Many patients find this part of the examination to be the most unpleasant step.

The good news: The preparation takes only a short time and is necessary so that the doctor can optimally assess the colon lining.

Why It's Worth the Effort

A colonoscopy is considered the most reliable method for colorectal cancer screening.

During the procedure:

Colonic polyps can be detected
Precursors to colorectal cancer can be removed
Inflammation can be identified
Colorectal cancer can be detected at an early stage

As a result, the procedure not only aids in early detection but can also help prevent colorectal cancer.

Don’t Let Fear Hold You Back

Many people put off having a colonoscopy for years because they’re afraid of pain or an unpleasant experience.

Today, the reality is usually quite different: Thanks to modern technology and state-of-the-art sedation, most patients find the procedure straightforward and painless.

Those who decide to undergo this screening are investing in their own health and often find that their fears were much greater than the exam itself.

Conclusion

Modern colonoscopy is painless in most cases today. While unpleasant experiences were certainly common in the past, patients today benefit from state-of-the-art equipment and effective sedation.

For many, the real “big hassle” remains the preparation. Once that’s done, the procedure itself is usually experienced as much easier than expected.

I'm happy to be here for you

Dr. med. univ. André Kugener

Board-Certified Gastroenterologist (FMH)

Dr. med. univ. André Kugener studied medicine at the Medical University of Innsbruck and completed his studies in 2004 with a doctorate (Dr. med. univ.). He was already involved in medical research during his studies and focused his dissertation on brain dysfunction in patients with liver cirrhosis.

He completed his specialty training in Switzerland. In 2014, he earned the specialty certification in General Internal Medicine, and in 2016, the specialty certification in Gastroenterology. He also passed the European Board of Gastroenterology & Hepatology Examination and continues to pursue ongoing professional development in his field.

Dr. med. univ. Kugener has many years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive tract. Since 2024, he has been a co-founder of the gastroenterology department at the Ostermundigen Medical Center and heads the gastroenterology practice there. He applies his extensive expertise to the care of his patients.

Ärztezentrum Ostermundigen

Dr méd. André Kugener

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