Colon Cleansing Enemas

Colon cleansing enemas can be used to cleanse the colon for detoxification, constipation relief and to prepare for medical examinations and tests involving the gastrointestinal tract. There are many things you must consider when preparing and performing a colon cleansing enema such as water temperature, equipment, solutions and positions. Use either the enema applicator nozzle or the douche applicator nozzle that is included in the enema bag equipment for the best administration. The douche nozzle will be more effective for a high colonic enema.

Water Temperature

• Heat the water you will use for the enema to approximately 101 degrees Fahrenheit. Water that is too cold for the administration of the colon cleansing enema may cause intense cramping in the intestines, while water that is too hot may cause internal burning of the intestines. Be sure the tubing is connected to the enema bag. Be sure the clamp is closed on the tubing to prevent the solution from prematurely flowing. Pour the enema solution into the enema bag.

Solutions

• Choosing the best solution for a colon cleansing enema is a matter of both personal comfort and effectiveness. Warm tap water enemas are effective for relieving constipation, while solutions such as mild Castille soap mixed with tap water produce peristalsis action in the colon to remove built-up fecal matter. Fill the enema bag with the solution. Clamp the enema tubing to prevent the solution from flowing before you insert the enema tip into the rectum.

Positions

• Choose a comfortable but effective position for administering the enema. The most effective positions to use for colon cleansing enemas include the knee chest, on-the-back, and right side position. Begin administering the enema in one position by inserting the applicator tip and releasing the clamp. Move to another position after one minute. Move between one or more positions for administering the enema.

Retention

• Retain the enema for a maximum of five minutes for the best results. Move to different positions during the retention of the enema. Begin by retaining the enema in the same position you used during administration. Move to the right side position for one minute. Rotate through positions, from the right side to the left side, then to the on-the-back position. Remain in each position for approximately one minute or until the urge to expel the enema and feces becomes very strong.

Explulsion

• Find a comfortable location to expel the enema. Remove your enema either in the bathtub, on a bedpan or on the toilet. Select the location that is most comfortable for you. Place a towel under the body if you are expelling the enema in a bathtub or on a bedpan. Expelling the enema while in any one of the positions you used during administration may help to ensure proper evacuation of both the enema and stool from the colon.

Abdominal Massage

• Use abdominal massage in a counterclockwise direction during expelling the enema. Using the abdominal massage helps to ensure complete evacuation of stool and enema solution from the colon during the expulsion phase of the enema. Massage the abdomen for approximately one minute to expel the enema solution. Repeat the process until the urge to expel the enema subsides for a maximum of five minutes before the enema can be considered complete.

Warnings

• Use enemas as a last resort for cleansing the colon after you've unsuccessfully tried other laxatives and dietary interventions for treating constipation. Remain near the toilet for up to one hour after using an enema in case of any residual urges to have a bowel movement.