How To Give Yourself An Enema

Colon Cleansing - How To Give Yourself An Enema

Within the past several decades, the use of enemas has become increasingly rare. Many Americans, for example, have never even had one in their entire lifetime. Because it is not a commonly practiced procedure, there are some key pointers that can make colon cleansing with an enema manageable. It is not as difficult as it might seem, there are just some things to be aware of in order to prevent undue discomfort. Armed with the right information and the right tools it is possible to learn how to give yourself an enema.

Supplies Needed to Give Yourself an Enema

The enema itself is very important. It should hold at least two quarts of water, have at least five feet of tubing and an adequate insertion tip. Many good brands serve a dual purpose and can be utilized as either an enema or a vaginal douche. It is best to find one in that comes with at least one or two replacement tips. The enema bag itself should have some sort of “S” clip so that it can be hung from the shower or the shower curtain rod in the bathroom. Certain individuals are highly sensitive to latex so it might be wise to ascertain whether or not the tubing and/or the tip is constructed from or with latex.

Purified Water vs. Enema Solutions

When learning how to give yourself an enema it is probably best to use purified water at body temperature. While there are several recognized solutions, some commercial and some homemade, it is best to start with plain purified water until the process becomes more comfortable. Warm purified water is non-irritating and will adequately flush the colon and promote peristalsis, the contractions that move matter through the colon. Some solutions include a small amount of food or vegetable based soaps, essential oils like lavender or peppermint, sea salt and even coffee. Then there are commercial solutions of which a great number can be purchased online.

The Basics of How to Give Yourself an Enema

Now that all the supplies have been assembled and the purified water or solution of choice are ready, it’s time to learn how to give yourself an enema. Some people find it more comfortable to kneel on the floor of the bathroom and place their hands on the floor in front of them. It is easy to reach around behind and release the clamp to let the water begin flowing. Other individuals choose to lie on their side in the tub with the upper knee brought close to the chest. Insert the tip into the rectum by about 4 to 6 inches. Release the nozzle clamp slowly so that too much force isn’t applied as the water begins to enter the colon. The first time it may not be possible to utilize the full two quarts of warm water, but with each successive attempt more water can be used. It is important to realize that the flow of water should never be too forceful. In most cases it will only provide some discomfort, but for individuals with weak areas in the lining of the colon there is potential for perforation.

Warnings

Pregnant women should not use enemas as they are known to induce labor. The warm fluids that cause contractions in the colon can also promote uterine contractions. Also, anyone having been diagnosed with colorectal disease should seek medical advice prior to using rectal enemas. In any case, it is always recommended to consult a physician prior to learning how to give yourself an enema in the event that there are medical conditions that would preclude being able to utilize them safely.