Can I undergo a colonoscopy during my menstrual period?

Generally, having a menstrual period is usually a contraindication for colonoscopy. The detailed explanation is as follows:

During menstruation, a woman's blood clotting function is relatively weakened, and the body is in a state of relative anticoagulation. Performing a colonoscopy under these conditions increases the risk of bleeding if a biopsy or treatment is required upon detecting any intestinal lesions. Moreover, women's immune resistance may decline during their period. Although bowel preparation is performed before the examination, there remains a possibility of introducing external bacteria or other pathogens into the body, which could negatively affect health.

In addition, women may experience physiological discomforts during menstruation such as abdominal pain, back pain, and fatigue. The colonoscopy procedure itself may cause some abdominal distension and pain, which could exacerbate physical discomfort and psychological stress.

In daily life, if a colonoscopy is required, it is recommended to schedule the examination 3–5 days after the menstrual period ends, to ensure both accuracy and safety of the procedure. Meanwhile, during the waiting period, attention should be paid to personal hygiene, keeping the perineal area clean to avoid infection. After the examination, a light and healthy diet is recommended, avoiding oily, spicy, or irritating foods, which is beneficial for gastrointestinal recovery.