March is Colonoscopy Awareness Month, a national health observance focused on preventing colorectal cancer and encouraging digestive health screening.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when caught early. A colonoscopy allows doctors to detect and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into something more serious. Awareness matters because early detection saves lives.
What Is Colonoscopy Awareness Month?
Colonoscopy Awareness Month highlights:
- The importance of digestive health
- Early screening for colorectal cancer
- Reducing stigma around colonoscopies
- Educating people about prevention
Most medical organizations recommend that adults at average risk begin colonoscopy screening at age 45. However, individuals with a family history or digestive symptoms may need screening earlier. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure in which a gastroenterologist inserts a thin, flexible tube with a camera (called a colonoscope) into the rectum to examine the colon. It is typically performed under sedation and takes about 30–60 minutes.
The procedure:
- Detects colon polyps
- Screens for colorectal cancer
- Identifies inflammation, bleeding, or intestinal abnormalities
- Allows removal of polyps during the same visit
Why Is Colonoscopy Screening Important?
Colonoscopy screening is important because:
- Colorectal cancer often develops without early symptoms
- Polyps can be removed before they turn cancerous
- Early detection significantly improves survival rates
- It can identify other digestive disorders
Routine screening is one of the most effective preventive health measures available for adults over 45.
What Is Colonoscopy Prep?
Colonoscopy prep is the process of completely clearing the colon before the procedure so the doctor can clearly see the intestinal lining. In the 24 hours prior to your colonoscopy, Gastroenterologists typically recommend a regimen of fasting, ingesting only clear liquids, and laxatives to help clear the colon. The goal is to completely empty the colon of food and waste.
This means frequent bowel movements.
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized screening recommendations.
Why Colonoscopy Prep Can Irritate Your Bum
During colonoscopy prep, you may experience:
- Frequent bowel movements
- Frequent wiping
- Increased moisture
- Sensitivity around the rectal area
- Irritation from friction from wiping with dry toilet paper repeatedly in a short period of time.
What Can I Use to Alleviate Irritation from Colonoscopy Prep
To ease the irritation and friction caused from frequent and repetitive wiping in a short period of time during colonoscopy preparations, many people choose to use regular toilet paper paired with a Pristine Toilet Paper Spray. Why?
Toilet paper is engineered to break down quickly in water. Adding a soothing cleansing spray can:
- Aid toilet paper gently glide across the bum
- Reduce friction and irritation
- Provide a cleaner feel
- Support comfort during numerous bathroom trips
Pristine Toilet Paper Spray is formulated with soothing, plant-based ingredients designed to calm and hydrate sensitive skin during heavy use.
When prepping for a colonoscopy, your skin may already feel vulnerable. A gentle, glide-enhancing spray can help minimize discomfort from frequent wiping, and give you peace of mind that you are not adding single-use, often non-flushable, wet wipes into your plumbing.
How Bathroom Habits Affect More Than Just Your Body
Colonoscopy Awareness Month reminds us to protect our digestive health. But it’s also a moment to reflect on everyday habits.
What you flush affects:
- Your plumbing or septic system
- Municipal wastewater treatment facilities
- Local waterways
- Environmental resources
The widely recognized flushing guideline is simple:
Only flush the 3 Ps — Poop, Pee, and Paper.
Other Ways to Care for Digestive Health
In addition to screening, digestive health can be supported by:
- Eating a fiber-rich diet (unless restricted before prep)
- Staying hydrated
- Exercising regularly
- Limiting processed foods
- Avoiding tobacco
- Reducing excessive alcohol intake
And most importantly: talking with your doctor about screening recommendations.
The Bottom Line
Colonoscopy Awareness Month in March is about prevention, education, and proactive care. Colonoscopy prep may involve a lot of bathroom trips and ALOT of wiping — which means comfort matters. Choosing a soothing cleansing spray with toilet paper can help protect sensitive skin while keeping your routine sewer-safe.
Care for your colon.
Care for your comfort.
Care for your pipes and the planet.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns or conditions.