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Hello, this is Sungmo Best Internal Medicine in Siheung. As interest in health has increased, inquiries about colonoscopies have significantly risen. Unlike gastroscopies, which only require fasting, colonoscopies involve a preparation process before the examination, causing many to feel burdened even before starting.

Therefore, today we have compiled information on why and how to take bowel preparation medication (colonoscopy medication), dietary adjustments starting three days before the examination, and the examination cost, which many people are curious about. If you are scheduled for an examination, we recommend reading this in advance.

A colonoscopy is an examination that directly observes the inside of the large intestine using a flexible endoscope. It plays an important role in diagnosing large intestine diseases such as colorectal cancer, polyps, and inflammatory bowel disease. In particular, regular examinations are recommended for colorectal cancer, as early detection generally leads to better treatment outcomes.

Colorectal cancer is a representative cancer for which preventive effects can be expected simply by undergoing an examination in advance. It is also a common cancer in Korea, so periodic colonoscopies are well worth undergoing. Please also remember that early stages often have almost no symptoms, making timely detection difficult without regular examinations.

Why Early Detection is Important

• If detected in the early stages, the burden of treatment can be significantly reduced.
• Polyps found during the examination can be removed on the spot, which helps reduce the risk of progression to colorectal cancer.
• It is also used to diagnose inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

The cost is generally around 100,000 won, with slight variations depending on the hospital. The actual burden can also vary significantly depending on whether private health insurance applies. Rather than focusing on a difference of 30,000-50,000 won, we recommend choosing a hospital that accurately observes and correctly analyzes the results, as this is a significant decision to undergo a check-up. If you are curious about our clinic's examination procedures, you can find them in our Examination Guide.

To increase the accuracy of the examination, some preparation is necessary.

Dietary Adjustments Starting 3 Days Before

• Start a low-fiber diet 3 days before the examination. Focus on easily digestible foods such as white rice, boiled eggs, and clear broth.
• Avoid hard or dark-colored foods starting 24 hours before the examination.

Bowel Preparation Medication the Day Before

Taking bowel preparation medication is not an option but a necessity. This is because the bowel must be thoroughly emptied for the endoscope camera to properly view the inside of the intestine. On the evening before the examination, take the medication with plenty of fluids at intervals as instructed by the medical staff.

• The method of taking the medication varies slightly depending on whether the prescribed medicine is a pill or a liquid, so checking directly with the hospital is the most accurate way.
• If you are taking specific medications such as anticoagulants, you should consult with the medical staff to adjust your medication schedule.

1. Upon arrival, you will have a consultation with the medical staff to confirm your current condition and ask any questions you may have.
2. If you chose a sedated colonoscopy, a sedative will be administered to induce a sedated state before starting the examination.
3. The endoscope is inserted through the anus to observe the large intestine. While there may be pain or discomfort during this process, if performed under sedation, you will undergo the examination comfortably while sleeping.
4. After the examination, you will rest briefly in the recovery room before returning home. If you received sedation, we recommend avoiding driving or making important decisions on the same day.

Although a colonoscopy is a relatively safe examination, complications such as minor bleeding or bowel perforation may occur in some cases. As the outcome can vary from person to person, it is important to receive the examination from experienced medical staff. If you are planning a colonoscopy in Siheung, we hope you will detect and manage diseases early through regular examinations. Before your visit, checking our Clinic Hours Guide will make scheduling an appointment much smoother.

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Dr. Kim Seonhoo (Specialist in Gastroenterology, Specialist in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) · Medical Staff Introduction · Last reviewed 2026-08-06