Can anyone advise on colonoscopy without conscious sedation (perhaps a nurse/health professional). I am considering not having it during my up and coming procedure in a couple of weeks but I've heard/read such conflicting statements. I believe the removal of polyps or tissue samples is painless because there are no nerves in your colon and apart from some mild cramping whilst the scope is manoevering round 'bends', it is not a painful or difficult procedure. What I don't understand is, if there is no pain, then why is sedation (which can cause amnesia) coupled with analgesia administered. If the procedure isn't bad and there's no pain - then why would you need it?? Obviously I don't want to be in terrible pain (although I'm no wimp!) and would agree to some form of pain management if needs be, but I wonder if the patient is given the drugs because it's easier for the Doctor in terms of possibly saving time because they can complete the procedure quicker without having to worry about hurting or talking to the patient (or certainly they won't recall being in pain if the memory is affected!).