You will change into a gown and lie on your side on a couch. A thin tube is put a little way into your rectum (back passage) and barium liquid is put into the bowel, followed by some air. The air expands the lining of the bowel a little, to give a clearer view of the inside. This may feel a bit strange, but it doesn’t hurt. You may feel the urge to move your bowel, but this is quite normal. The end of the enema tube is designed to help you hold in the barium.

The person carrying out the test will be able to see the inside of your bowel on a video screen. S/he will then take some X-ray pictures.

During the test you will be asked to change position, and the couch may be moved so that the barium liquid can flow around the bowel.

The test usually lasts between 20 and 40 minutes, but it may take a little longer