Letters to the Editor

I'm going in for a colonoscopy My doctor says not to worry yet, but that doesn't help. By Cary Tennis [2006-03-13]

• 'Psychosexual issues' worthy of exploration...

  Cary mentions the psychosexual issues that some men may have with colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies and digital rectal exams. I wish more research would be done on this topic, because some men's "nothing's going in MY butt" reaction is strong enough to inhibit them from obtaining essential medical care. How many more men would receive early or timely diagnosis if a way could be found to help address the psychosexual issues?

  New flash, if it helps: No one will think you're gay if you receive these tests. The gastroenterologist sees anuses in the double digits every single day - male, female, straight, gay, adult, child. There's nothing special about YOUR butt. Sexually active women who have gynecological exams may have a leg up on men here - we're used to invasive tests performed while in embarrassing positions. But the psychosexual issues some men experience typically don't come into play at the gyno's office either.

  I have had multiple colonoscopies. The scope used is quite small. To reduce test time, I recommend a thorough pre-test prep (more annoying than the colonoscopy, in my opinion), and finding a gastro who does a lot of colonoscopies and has a lot of experience. You'll be well-medicated. Some colonoscopies I've flat-out slept through, some were a bit more uncomfortable. But if you've done a thorough prep, it passes quickly. YMMV. Ask your friends for doctor recommendations if at all possible. If you can stay awake, watch the monitor during the test. Very cool. Ask for pictures. ;-)

  LW, best of luck to you. Hang in there.

  -- KR
  [Read KR's other letters]
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