You will probably be asked to lie on a table on your left side with your knees positioned near
your chest. Your doctor should do a digital rectal exam, or DRE (inserting a gloved,
lubricated finger into the rectum), before inserting the sigmoidoscope. The sigmoidoscope is
lubricated to make it easier to insert into the rectum. The scope may feel cold. The
sigmoidoscope may stretch the wall of the colon, which may cause bowel spasms or lower
abdominal pain. Air will be placed into the sigmoid colon through the sigmoidoscope so the
doctor can see the walls of the colon better. During the procedure, you might feel pressure
and slight cramping in your lower abdomen. To ease discomfort and the urge to have a bowel
movement, it helps to breathe deeply and slowly through your mouth. You will feel better
after the test once the air leaves your colon.