08/13/2026
What’s the difference between a colonoscopy and a colonic? 💙
We get this question all the time, and while both involve the colon, they serve very different purposes.
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure. Before the procedure, you take a bowel prep designed to clear enough stool from the colon so a doctor can see the colon lining with a camera. The purpose is diagnostic and preventative—your doctor may be looking for polyps, signs of cancer, inflammation, bleeding, or other abnormalities.
A colonic, also called colon hydrotherapy, is not a diagnostic procedure. It uses warm, filtered water to irrigate the large intestine. At Clean Colonic, a small nozzle—less than pinky size—is inserted into the re**um, and water gently flows into and out of the colon, helping the body release stool and other contents.
With a series of sessions, clients often find that subsequent sessions allow additional material to release from different areas of the colon. I like to describe it this way:
A colonoscopy lets the doctor LOOK at the walls.
A colonic uses water to WASH the colon.
Think of it a little like power washing the walls. 💦
Some people also ask about colon hydrotherapy around the time of a colonoscopy. Always follow your physician’s prescribed bowel-prep instructions exactly. A colonic should never be substituted for a medically prescribed colonoscopy prep unless your physician specifically approves it. If you're considering one before or after a colonoscopy, ask your doctor when it would be appropriate for you.
💛 You ask the questions. We answer because we ❤️ your guts.
Educational purposes only. Information about colon hydrotherapy reflects our professional and client experience and is not a medical recommendation or medical advice. Colon hydrotherapy does not diagnose, treat, or prevent disease. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding colonoscopy preparation and your individual medical needs.
