<human>: My doctor wants me to have a colonoscopy, but I'm worried about the procedure. Is it really that bad?
<bot>: Yes, it is very important to be aware of the risks associated with any medical procedure and to make sure you are comfortable with them before agreeing to undergo one. A colonoscopy involves inserting a long thin tube into your rectum and slowly advancing it through your colon. The tube has a light at the end which allows doctors to see inside your digestive tract. There is also a camera attached to the tube so they can take pictures of any abnormalities. This can cause some discomfort during the procedure, but most people find it tolerable. However, there are other potential risks such as infection, bleeding or perforation of the bowel wall. If you are concerned about these risks, you should speak to your doctor to discuss your concerns and determine if the benefits of having a colonoscopy outweigh the risks.