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Gastroscopy: This is generally done if the doctor needs to see the stomach lining and take a small tissue sample (biopsy) to test for infections like Helicobacter pylori or confirm a diagnosis of gastritis. It is also done if blood has been reported in the vomit or stools, if it has shown up in a faecal occult blood (FOB) test, or if you have symptoms that include weight loss and extreme tiredness (especially if you are over 50). The gastroscope tube is inserted into the stomach by swallowing; you will be given an anaesthetic spray to numb the back of your throat and possibly a sedative if you feel nervous or uncomfortable about the procedure.

Proctoscopy: This is normally a quick procedure, and only involves looking at the first few centimetres of the anal canal. It is often used to check for fistulas, internal haemorrhoids and internal prolapse.

Sigmoidoscopy: Sigmoidoscopes, which are either rigid or flexible, are inserted into the bowel through the anus and can be used to look higher up in the colon, usually up to about 60cm (24in) inside. Rigid sigmoidoscopies – often done in outpatient clinics – can show how severe a case of UC might be. Flexible sigmoidoscopies are usually done on an empty bowel, normally without sedation, although most doctors will oblige if you feel very nervous about the procedure being done to you. Because air is pumped into the colon to open up the bowel for a better view, it can be an uncomfortable procedure, especially if you already have abdominal tenderness or pain.

Colonoscopy: The ‘king’ of bowel endoscopy procedures, a colonscopy allows a good view of the entire large bowel and the end of the small intestine (the terminal ileum). It can be used to accurately assess UC and Crohn’s disease, as well as any suture joins that have been made during surgery. Laxatives are normally given beforehand to clear out the colon, and the procedure is done on an inpatient or day-case basis. Because sedation is used, it is often less uncomfortable than some other ‘scope tests that don’t offer sedation (like barium enemas).