Field Trip: My Butt, a Colonoscopy Ride Along & How-To Encore - Ologies with Alie Ward Recap

Podcast: Ologies with Alie Ward

Published: 2026-03-17

What Happened

Alie Ward shares her personal journey of undergoing a colonoscopy due to her family history of colon cancer. She candidly recounts her father's battle with the disease and his humorous outlook during his colonoscopy prep. Alie's own experience with the procedure underscores the importance of regular screenings, as she had a 2mm precancerous polyp removed.

Colon cancer affects 1 in 16 people in America, making it a significant health concern. Regular screenings starting at age 45 are crucial, especially for those with a family history. Alie discusses how modern colonoscopy technology, developed in 1969 by scientists at Tokyo University, allows for early detection and removal of polyps before they become cancerous.

Preparing for a colonoscopy involves consuming a large volume of a solution like Gavilite G to clear the colon. Despite its unpleasant taste described as 'salty plastic', Alie found that flavorings like Crystal Light lemonade made it more palatable. She also received advice from strangers to use Pedialyte and seltzer water, which might help others facing the same challenge.

During her procedure, Alie was sedated with a combination of meparidine and midazolam. A study mentioned in the episode compares this sedative combination to one involving fentanyl, noting the latter's longer recovery time. Afterward, Alie enjoyed a meal at a diner, reminding listeners of the importance of self-care post-procedure.

Alie highlights the broader implications of colon health, including the risk factors associated with HPV, a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to anal cancer. The episode includes a PSA on not conflating medical procedures with sexual identity or behavior. Alie provides practical advice on maintaining anal hygiene, such as using anal douches or a high-fiber diet.

The episode also touches on historical aspects of proctology, mentioning John de Ardern, a 14th-century surgeon regarded as the father of the field. This historical context illustrates the long-standing importance of colorectal health. Alie concludes by directing listeners to her social media and promoting kid-friendly versions of her podcast, Smologies.

Key Insights

• Colon cancer affects approximately 1 in 16 Americans, making it a significant health issue. Regular screenings from age 45 are crucial for early detection, particularly for those with a family history, as they can catch precancerous polyps early.
• The preparation for a colonoscopy requires consuming a large volume of a solution like Gavilite G, which clears the colon. The solution's hyper-osmotic properties draw water into the intestines to induce bowel movements, though its taste often necessitates flavor enhancers such as Crystal Light.
• During a colonoscopy, sedation is typically achieved with a combination of meparidine and midazolam, although fentanyl is an alternative with a longer recovery time. This sedation allows for the painless removal of polyps, significantly reducing cancer risk.
• Historical advances in proctology have paved the way for modern colonoscopy techniques. The method was developed in 1969 by Tokyo University scientists and has become essential for early cancer detection and prevention.