When Should You Get Another Colonoscopy? The Answer Might Surprise You #shorts

23 Oct 2026 · 1 min

Watch on YouTube

0:30

In this concise YouTube short, Dr. Tabatha Barber shares her personal relief after completing a colonoscopy and outlines the recommended screening intervals. She emphasizes that a clean colonoscopy typically warrants a repeat in 10 years, while removal of polyps shortens follow‑up to every 3–5 years depending on polyp type. Additionally, she notes that a strong family history may further reduce the interval to every 2–3 years. She also cautions that some cancers can develop in less than a decade, underscoring the importance of adhering to these timelines.

I never have to worry about getting a colonoscopy. Either extreme isn't good. I'm glad I had it done. It verified what I already thought to be true, but now I can breathe easy. Having said that, cancers can grow in less than 10 years. If you have a clean colonoscopy, the recommendation is to come back in 10 years. If you've had polyps removed, it's 3 to 5, depending on the type of polyp, and family history can shorten that to every 2 to 3 years.