Colonoscopy

• In general, pregnant women and people who have an abdominal infection or an attack of Reference diverticulitis Opens New Window should not have a colonoscopy unless there is an important reason for it.
• Colonoscopy is a more expensive procedure than a stool test or other endoscopic colon test (such as sigmoidoscopy), but it can be done less often over time if results are normal.
• Experts recommend routine colon cancer testing for everyone age 50 and older who has a normal risk for colon cancer.
• Your doctor may recommend earlier or more frequent testing if you have a Reference higher risk for colon cancer. Talk to your doctor about when you should be tested.
• Other screening tests for colon cancer include sigmoidoscopy, stool tests, and computed tomographic colonography. Reference Which screening test you choose depends on your risk, your preference, and your doctor. Talk to your doctor about what puts you at risk and what test is best for you.

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