How to do an enema correctly: detailed instructions

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

This treatment is definitely not suitable for detoxification.

What is an enema

What to know about enemas is a procedure during which fluid is injected into the rectum. This contributes to the fact that the intestines are emptied - together with the water, feces come out of it.

This manipulation is performed using a container attached to a flexible tube or nozzle - this device is also called an enema. The container (most often rubber) is filled with liquid, which is then gradually introduced into the rectum through the anus using a nozzle.

An enema is necessary before certain medical examinations, such as colonoscopy, or rectal medication. But doing it without evidence is dangerous: sometimes it can lead to serious health problems.

Who and when not to do an enema

Enema is a fairly popular procedure. And often it is used excessively - in the hope of an effect that it will not give.

A striking example is attempts to "cleanse" the body with an enema. Bad News: No Do Enemas Hurt? How to Administer an Enema Correctly and Prevent Pain There is no scientific evidence that this detoxification works. The rectum and large intestine, of which it is a part, perfectly self-cleanse naturally. Another example is the tradition of giving an enema to pregnant women entering childbirth. Modern doctors do not recommend Enemas during labor / Cochraine this procedure, because it does not bring benefits and causes discomfort for the woman in labor.

In some cases, an enema is not only not recommended - it is even dangerous. Here's who can't do it:

• People with chronic constipation. If this condition is rare, the use of an enema is warranted. With the help of liquid injected into the anus, you can actually soften the stool and help it leave the intestines. But an enema should never be used with regular constipation. Firstly, for the reason that frequent constipation can indicate a serious illness and this problem should be addressed to a therapist, and not masked by washing the rectum. Secondly, the body can get used to the fact that no effort is required to empty the intestines. As a result, the muscles will begin to weaken and pretty soon you will find that you can no longer perform a bowel movement on your own, without the help of an enema.
• Those with a weakened immune system. People with impaired immunity caused by diseases such as AIDS or leukemia should not be given an enema due to the risk of introducing pathogenic bacteria into the intestines. The immune system may not be able to cope with the bacterial attack.
• People with hemorrhoids or rectal prolapse. Enema in this case is contraindicated due to the high risk of accidentally damaging the intestinal mucosa.
• Those who have had colon surgery or have ever been diagnosed with intestinal obstruction. This means that the intestinal walls can become thinner. Under the influence of the liquid injected with the enema, they can break through.

How to prepare and do an enema

For people who have no contraindications, the enema is safe. To cleanse the rectum as efficiently as possible, it must be carried out according to certain rules. Here's what Guidance for using an enema is recommended by the experts at King's College London Hospital.

1. Refuse food at least half an hour before the procedure

This is necessary so that excess feces do not accumulate in the intestines.

2. Make sure you have enough time

The emptying effect of an enema can last for about an hour. It is important that during this time you have the opportunity to go to the toilet.

3. Prepare a comfortable place for the procedure

Best of all - on the bathroom floor, so that if necessary, you can quickly get to the toilet or basin. Place a soft towel on which you can lie down. Place a couple more towels or a bundle of napkins nearby.

4. Carefully read the instructions for your kit

Enema is a simple procedure, so the instructions for the kits from different manufacturers are often almost identical. But there are some nuances. For example, it should be indicated how much water to use. Never exceed the recommended volume.

Also, the instructions will indicate to what height the container must be raised in order to provide the required water pressure.

5. Prepare warm drinking water

It's a matter of comfort. If the water is too cold or, on the contrary, hot, the procedure can become unpleasant, if not dangerous. Pour liquid into the enema.

6. Wash your hands thoroughly

Warm water and soap. Lather your palms for at least 20 seconds. Then dry it.

7. Remove clothing from your lower body

This is necessary so as not to stain it.

8. Lie on a prepared towel

Sit on your left side if you are right-handed, or on your right if you are left-handed. This will make it easier for you to complete the procedure.

9. Bend the upper leg at the knee

Try to bring your knee to your chest. To keep your foot off the ground, place a rolled-up towel under it.

10. Remove the cap from the enema tip and lubricate it if necessary

In quality kits, the nozzle is pre-treated with lubricant. If it is not enough or not at all, apply additional lubricant. It can be petroleum jelly or an intimate lubricant gel.

11. Insert the tip of the nozzle into the anus

It is necessary to inject to a depth of about 7 cm. Do this as carefully as possible. If the nozzle bumps into an obstacle (for example, hard feces), pull it back 1–1.5 cm.

12. Slowly inject the contents of the enema into the intestines

The rate of water inflow can be adjusted with a special tap on a flexible tube (if provided by the kit) or by squeezing the container with your hand. Once the liquid runs out, remove the tip from the anus and cover it with a tissue or towel.

13. Wait for the enema to work

Try to keep fluid in your intestines for as long as possible - at least a few minutes. When the urge to defecate becomes unbearable, go to the toilet to empty yourself.