• It is important that your rectum is empty when we perform this test.
• You will need to obtain a MICROLAX enema kit from the chemist. Follow the included instructions and perform at home on the morning of your test. This will clear your rectum and lower colon of faeces before the test begins. You will need to arrive one hour before your appointment time.

• To maximise the diagnostic benefit of this test, we will need to use two types of contrast for men and three for women.
• Firstly we will get you to drink approximately 500mL of liquid barium in the hour before your examination – this will highlight the small intestine on the images.
• You will then be asked to change out of your own clothing into a hospital gown with your underwear removed.
• Once you are on the x-ray table a small tube will be inserted into your back passage to allow a small quantity of thick barium paste (x-ray dye) to fill the rectum; this paste has the consistency of mashed potato.
• When enough barium is in your rectum the tube will be removed.
• For women undergoing this examination it may be necessary to insert a small amount of contrast gel into your vagina using a syringe. This will help identify the structures in your pelvic region.
• During the test you will be seated on a commode (mobile toilet chair) between the X-ray tube and detector. Due to the sensitive nature of this test every effort is made to protect your privacy. The examination is carried out by professional technical staff that are highly skilled and experienced in this area. Once your position has been fine-tuned by the technician you will be asked to perform a series of pelvic floor exercises whilst x-ray images are taken. During the examination you will be asked to empty your bowels and we will take x-ray images of this. This will allow the radiologist to see the interactions of the pelvic organs.

• You will return to the change room where you may use the toilet. There may still be a small amount of Barium remaining in your rectum and this should pass normally into the toilet along with the vaginal contrast you were given. This space is available for your use as long as required, please take your time and ensure that you feel ready to leave.
• In the first 48 hours following the procedure we ask you to drink plenty of water as the barium that you drink can cause minor constipation in some people. Also to note is that the barium goes in white and comes out white as well so do not be concerned about this.
• The images will be available online for your specialist and GP to review. 
• If you have any concerns following the procedure please contact your referring physician.

Your doctor will receive a written report on your test as soon as is practicable.

It is very important that you discuss the results with the doctor who referred you so they can explain what the results mean for you.

Most results are normal. Occasionally, small changes are seen that need further review. 

If your results are normal you will be able to return for routine screening (usually every 2 years). If  your results are uncertain or show changes you may need to consider additional imaging (diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy) in discussion with your referring doctor.