Before the procedure begins, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown. After you have changed into the hospital gown, your gastroenterologist may insert an intravenous line into the back of your hand to administer anesthesia or conscious sedation, unless another method of anesthesia is used, such as throat spray or liquid anesthetic. During the procedure, you will be positioned either on your back or your left side. Once the anesthesia has taken hold, your gastroenterologist will slowly insert the endoscope, which will inflate your stomach to provide a clearer view of your stomach lining.

After the procedure, you will need to stay in a recovery room for up to two hours to wait for the anesthesia and sedatives to wear off. You will also need a friend or family member to drive you home after the procedure.