Lower GI X-Ray - Barium Enema

What is involved in preparation for the test?

Before the day of the test, a person will be asked to clean out the lower bowel with a laxative and an enema or suppository. Because every exam center has specific instructions for this, it is best to get details from the center before the exam.

Before the test starts, the person will undress completely and put on a hospital gown. All jewelry, including pierced body jewelry, must be removed. The person will be asked if he or she has any metal inside the body or if he or she has had a barium exam in the past 3 to 4 days. A woman will also be asked if she is pregnant.