After Screening: What the Results Mean

Waiting for results can feel stressful. You are not alone. This page explains what your results may show, how you will hear about them, and what happens next. The goal is to reduce worry and keep you in control of your health.

How and when you will get results

Ask your clinic how results will be sent. This might be by phone, patient portal, text, or mail.
Ask for a date when you should hear back. Put that date on your calendar.
If that date passes and you have not heard, call the clinic and ask for an update.

If you had a FIT stool test

What a negative result means

No hidden blood was found. This is reassuring.
Stay on the schedule your provider recommends. For most people at average risk that means repeating the FIT in one year.
If you still have symptoms such as rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits, belly pain, weight loss, or iron-deficiency anemia, tell your provider. A negative FIT does not explain symptoms.

What a positive result means

Hidden blood was found. Many conditions can cause this, such as hemorrhoids or polyps.
The next step is a colonoscopy to look for the cause and to remove any polyps.
Schedule the colonoscopy as soon as possible. Ask your clinic for help with appointments, cost, and transportation if needed.

Questions to ask

When should I repeat the FIT if my results are negative?
If my FIT is positive, how soon can I have a colonoscopy?
If I keep having symptoms, what should I do while I wait?

If you had a Cologuard stool DNA test

What a negative result means

No concerning DNA changes or hidden blood were found. This is reassuring.
Stay on the schedule your provider recommends. Many people at average risk repeat Cologuard in three years.
If you still have symptoms, tell your provider. A negative result does not replace follow-up when symptoms continue.

What a positive result means

A signal was detected that could be linked to blood or DNA changes.
The next step is a colonoscopy to look directly and to remove any polyps.
Schedule the colonoscopy as soon as you can. Your clinic can help with logistics and cost questions.

Questions to ask

When should I repeat Cologuard if results are negative?
If my Cologuard is positive, what is the timeline for colonoscopy?
If I feel anxious while I wait, who can I call for support or information?

If you had a colonoscopy

Normal exam

No cancer was seen and no polyps were found. This is very good news.
Ask when you should return for routine screening based on your age and risk. Many people at average risk repeat colonoscopy in ten years.
If symptoms led to the colonoscopy, talk with your provider about other causes and relief.

Polyps removed

Polyps were taken out to prevent cancer. This is common and is the purpose of the test.
The laboratory will examine the polyps. Results usually take a few days.
Your follow-up schedule depends on the number, size, and type of polyps. Some people return in three to five years. Your provider will give a clear plan.

Biopsies taken

A small tissue sample was taken for testing. You will not feel this afterward.
Results usually take a few days. Ask how and when you will receive them.
Your next steps depend on what the biopsy shows. Your provider will explain the plan in plain language.

If something concerning was found

Your provider will explain the findings, what they mean, and the treatment options.
You will be referred to the right specialists. This may include a surgeon, medical oncologist, or radiation oncologist.
Take notes, bring a support person, and ask for written instructions. Most people feel less anxious when they understand the plan.

Questions to ask

When will I receive the polyp or biopsy results?
Based on what you found, when is my next colonoscopy due?
Who should I contact if I have questions after I get home?

Extra Tips

When to call the clinic right away

Severe belly pain that does not improve
Heavy rectal bleeding or passing large clots
Fever or chills
Dizziness or fainting
If you cannot reach your provider, go to urgent care or the emergency department.

Staying engaged while you wait

Put follow-up dates on your calendar.
Keep a short symptom log and bring it to your next visit.
Ask for a phone number or portal message link for questions.
If cost or scheduling is a problem, ask about financial assistance and navigation support.

The bottom line

A normal result is reassuring. An abnormal result is a signal to take the next step, not a reason to panic. Your team will guide you. Early action leads to simpler care and better outcomes. You have already taken a strong step by getting screened. Keep going until you have clear answers and a plan that makes sense.