Even though I was only 38 at the time, I had my first colonoscopy just last October. The prep was NOT fun, but it wasn't nearly as terrible as I thought it would be. I plowed right through the jug of nastiness and found that pouring it over ice made it much more palatable. I would literally put it in my mouth and out it would come from the other end. It's like a good intestinal roto-rooter'ing.
I was under for the entire procedure so I have no idea about the excessive farting. Although, knowing me the whole room was probably ready to float away by the time they got done.
I was super sleepy that afternoon but not in any discomfort whatsoever. They did find several pre-cancerous noduals, but I was told they can remain in the pre-cancerous stage for many decades before morphing into actual colon cancer. I have to go in every year for the next five years to get checked and if everything stays the same they will reduce check-ups to once every five years.
The whole process started nearly two years ago with a uterine cancer diagnosis that resulted in a hysterectomy followed by the removal of my appendix and right ovary. My appendix was adhered to my colon by a mucus filled adenoma that is often associated with colon cancer. Hence the colonoscopy.
I have always wanted a large family and have experienced the occasional pang of sorrow and sadness over not being able to physically have any more children. However, I don't know that could I still have them I would choose to do so. Mine are so big now that it would be like starting over. And there is always adoption should the urge manifest into a wanton reality.