When is a Sigmoidoscopy Needed?
You may need a sigmoidoscopy if you experience:
- Persistent bowel habits changes (diarrhoea, constipation, or irregular movements)
- Screening for bowel cancer
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Screening for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Abdominal pain, bloating or cramping
- Family history of colorectal conditions
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is often recommended as part of a routine bowel cancer screening program.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Our private sigmoidoscopy procedure is designed for accuracy and patient comfort
- Preparation – You will be given specific dietary instructions and may need an enema before the procedure.
- Sedation (Optional) – Light sedation is available for enhanced comfort.
- Sigmoidoscopy Procedure – The sigmoidoscope is carefully inserted through the rectum to examine the lower colon.
- Biopsy & Polyp Removal – If needed, small tissue samples or polyps may be removed for further analysis.
- Recovery – The procedure typically takes 15-20 minutes, followed by a short recovery period.
Private Sigmoidoscopy Cost
A colonoscopy at our Banbury hospital starts from £1,100. Before the procedure, a consultation with one of our specialists is required for a referral.
You can self-refer for a consultation with any of our consultants, with fees starting from £200. This includes a comprehensive assessment beyond just the referral.
To book a consultation, please complete the form below or contact us via the email link or phone number provided.
How to pay
You can pay for treatment through medical insurance, or directly.
For those with an insurance policy that covers colonoscopy (many do).
For people choosing to fund diagnosis and treatment themselves.
Private Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Without a GP Referral
At our private hospital, consultants can refer you for a sigmoidoscopy, so no referral is needed from your own doctor, or GP.
