Recently, Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek and Schitt’s Creek actress Catherine O’Hara both sadly passed from colorectal cancer. Van Der Beek is one of the many younger people (including parents with small kids) succumbing to this disease; colorectal cancer is now the most common cause of cancer deaths for people under 50 in the United States.
The good news? Colon cancer is often preventable and treatable when caught early. Colonoscopies—now recommended starting at age 45 if no family history—not only screen for cancer but during the procedure, precancerous polyps can be removed before they turn into cancer.
Early symptoms can include stomach pain, blood in the stool, bowel changes and unexplained weight loss (read more here). If you’re 45 or younger and experiencing symptoms or have a family history, make the appointment.
If you’re nervous about the procedure, don’t be—moms who have done it say the anticipation of the prep and procedure are worse than the reality. Plus, there are some unexpected reasons why getting a routine colonoscopy probably won’t be your worst day as a mom—here’s why.
You Can Finally Take Some Time “Off”
The prep, where you basically drink a bunch of laxatives to clear your colon, isn’t super pleasant. But you know what is a silver lining? You have the perfect excuse for an evening off, to read, scroll your phone, watch Netflix or do whatever you want (along with lots of bathroom breaks…). Not to mention the hour or so when you’ll be completely unreachable (aka, asleep—see below).
The Prep is a Great Reminder to Focus on Yourself
If you felt like pregnancy was a good reminder to eat healthily, rest when you need it, and just generally listen to your body, the prep can offer that perspective, too. For the days before, you’ll want to hydrate, eat low fiber foods (sort of a treat if you haven’t eaten white bread since the 80s), and be forced to slow down (especially the last day on that liquid diet). Again, not super fun, but a reminder that you deserve your attention, too.
The Anesthesia is the Best Nap You’ll Have
If the last time you took a nap was before you had babies taking them, propofol, the most common drug used to put patients under for colonoscopies, will make up for lost time. Part of being a mom is waking up tired, often with someone asking for something before you’ve opened your eyes. When you wake up from your colonoscopy expect to feel rested, cozy, and be offered a drink and snack.
You’ll Have Peace of Mind
Bottom line: We all want to be healthy and here for our families. Along with other routine tests like pap smears, blood panels, skin checks, and dental visits, colonoscopies can check one more thing off the list that can cause major healthy issues if caught too late but can be dealt with if caught early.
So be proactive, talk to your doctor, and don’t dread the colonoscopy—you might even (kind of) enjoy it.
