Gastroenterologist Questions Colonoscopy

Bleeding with mucus after colonoscopy and polyp removal

I am a 43 year old female that had a colonoscopy 42 hours ago because of several GI issues. During the colonoscopy the doctor discovered a duodenal ulcer and two colon polyps in my sigmoid colon. The polyps were removed and sent for biopsy. The doctor said I might experience some bleeding immediately following the procedure. I had some bleeding that subsided about 3 Hours after the procedure. 42 Hours after polyp removal I had my first bowel movement. It was very thin and loose with small amounts of bright red blood and mucus. I have had some upset stomach issues, as well. Is this normal? Should I still be bleeding this long after the procedure? There were two polyps 2 to 5 mm in size, removed with a cold snare.

Female | 43 years old
Complaint duration: 2 days
Medications: None

3 Answers

Bleeding should not continue longer than 1-2 days after routine colonoscopy with only small polyps removed. But the bleeding and mucus may be from something unrelated to the procedure, such as hemorrhoids. The upset stomach might simply be caused by the ulcer. It will take several days to weeks for the ulcer to heal with antacid pills.
The polyps were small and unlikely to cause bleeding. Duodenal ulcer on the other hand, depending on the initial presentation, may revel 24-48 hours later.

Dr. Davidoff
Bleeding after polypectomy is a known complication. It is not normal. This should be discussed only with your Gastroenterologist.