After you have returned your test kit, you will receive a letter with your results and information about what this means for you. You may also receive a call from a doctor or a nurse.
A positive test result does not necessarily mean you have bowel cancer.
Small amounts of blood in your bowel motion are most commonly caused by polyps, or other minor conditions such as haemorrhoids (piles), which can easily be treated.
If your test is positive it means you will need a further investigation. This will usually be a colonoscopy (an internal examination of the large bowel).
A doctor or a nurse will contact you to discuss your results and the type of follow up test that is right for you. This will usually be further investigation by colonoscopy.
If you have been referred to us for a colonoscopy, you will be contacted for pre-assessment by our Bowel Screening Specialty Clinical Nurse. She will talk to you about what you need to do to prepare for the colonoscopy.
You may also find information on this website helpful:
https://www.huttvalleydhb.org.nz/visitors/endoscopy-and-medical-day-stay-outpatients/
