How to Insert Glycerin Suppositories

Glycerin suppositories provide relief from constipation to adults, children and the elderly. Glycerin suppositories must be inserted into the rectum properly and must be retained properly in the rectum for a period of time in order to effectively produce a bowel movement to relieve constipation.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves (optional)
• Personal lubricant

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Instructions

Preparation

• 1

  Gather the suppository, gloves and personal lubricant before inserting the suppository into your rectum in order to treat constipation.

• 2

  Wash your hands before you put the glove on. Be sure to wash hands with hot water if you are not using a glove to insert the suppository into the rectum.

• 3

  Put the glove onto the hand you will be using to insert the suppository into your rectum. The glove is optional, and is merely meant to make cleanup a little easier after inserting the suppository. Use your bare hand to insert the suppository if you are uncomfortable using a glove.

• 4

  Apply the personal lubricant to the index finger of the glove or to the bare index finger if you aren't using a glove. Apply lubricant to the anus and onto the pointed end of the suppository.

• 5

  Lay down on a flat surface, such as a bed or floor. Lay on the left or right side or assume the knee-chest position to administer the suppository into the rectum.

Insertion

• 6

  Hold the suppository using the thumb and index finger of the gloved hand. Be sure the pointed end of the suppository is facing outward towards the tip of the index finger.

• 7

  Use the thumb to push the suppository off the tip of the finger towards the rectum.

• 8

  Switch to the index finger once the pointed tip of the suppository is touching the rectum.

• 9

  Apply a slight amount of pressure as the suppository begins to slip into the rectum.

• 10

  Push the index finger into the rectum behind the suppository. Bear down and tighten the anal muscles to propel the suppository into the rectum. Leave the finger inside the rectum for one minute to ensure the suppository doesn't slip out.

Cleanup

• 11

  Remove the glove.

• 12

  Discard the glove in the trash can.

• 13

  Wash your hands to remove the glove residue and any other residue, such as lubricant or fecal matter, in the event you inserted the suppository without using gloves.

• 14

  Place the jar of suppositories in their storage location, such as the medicine cabinet or the refrigerator.

• 15

  Wait until the urge to have a bowel movement comes as a result of the suppository. Move to the toilet.