If you are constipated, quickly relieve the symptoms by giving yourself an enema. If you've never done it before, this procedure can be a bit daunting, but it's not a complicated process. Make sure you have privacy and free time so you can be close to the restroom at all times. However, keep in mind that enemas should only be used occasionally, and it's a good idea to consult your doctor before doing them. This is because enemas can increase the risk of dehydration, inflammation, and even cavities.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Getting Ready
Step 1. Consult a doctor before you administer the enema yourself
While this procedure is usually safe, you should still consult with your doctor first. Your doctor may first suggest other methods to relieve your constipation, such as taking fiber supplements or over-the-counter laxatives, if you haven't already. If your doctor does recommend an enema, he or she will tell you how often to do the procedure, or what to do if the constipation doesn't go away.
In some cases, your doctor may ask you to do an enema before you undergo a procedure such as a colonoscopy (an examination of the inside of the large intestine)
Step 2. Make your own mixture if you are using an enema from a saline solution
Unless your doctor advises otherwise, the safest material for performing enemas is a simple saline solution. You can easily make your own salt solution by mixing 2 tsp. (10 grams) table salt with 1 liter warm distilled water.
- Use distilled water as tap water can contain contaminants that should not be introduced into the rectum.
- If you want to make your own enema solution, you'll also need to purchase an enema bag and tube.
- Do not add other ingredients to the saline solution, unless advised by your doctor. Even if recommended by Internet sites or friends and family members, do not add fruit juice, vinegar, herbs, coffee, or alcohol to the enema solution. The risks involved if you put these ingredients into the intestine far outweigh the possible benefits.
- Once a saline solution has been prepared, fill the enema bag with 180 ml of solution for children aged 2-6 years, 350 ml for children aged 6-12 years, and 470 ml for people aged 13 years or older.
- Do not give enemas to children under 2 years of age, unless directed by a doctor.
Step 3. Purchase a kit if your doctor recommends a phosphate or mineral oil enema
Phosphate and mineral oil are laxatives, so they can increase the effectiveness of the enema solution. Mineral oil is less irritating than phosphate enemas. However, consult your doctor before you use it.
- Over-the-counter enema solutions are usually available in adult and pediatric doses. Read the instructions carefully to make sure that you buy the right enema for your age and body size.
- If using mineral oil enemas, the dosage is 60 ml of solution for children 2-6 years old, and 130 ml for people older than 6 years.
- For a phosphate enema, the dose is 30 ml for a child weighing 9 kg or more, 60 ml for a child weighing at least 18 kg, 90 ml for a person weighing 27 kilograms or more, 120 ml for a person weighing 36 kg. or more, and 130 ml for those who weigh 41 kilograms or more.
Warning:
Young children and the elderly should not be given phosphate enemas as they can lead to dangerous electrolyte imbalances.
Step 4. Drink 1-2 glasses of water 30 minutes before doing the enema
Enemas can sometimes lead to dehydration because they stimulate the intestines to empty their contents. This can be prevented by drinking 250-500 ml of water 30 minutes before you do the enema.
- You should also drink plenty of fluids after the enema to restore lost fluids.
- Drinking lots of water can also help prevent constipation.
Step 5. Place the folded towel on the bathroom floor
Since you may need to go to the bathroom quickly, it's a good idea to run the enema in the bathroom. Apart from that, this place is ideal for getting some privacy while you are carrying out the procedure. Prepare the area by placing a few folded towels on the bathroom floor for a comfortable seat while you wait.
- Make sure there is a place in the bathroom to put the enema bag while you wait, such as a small stool or a hook to hang the bag.
- You can also have a magazine or book ready on the spot to read when you run the enema.
Step 6. Lubricate the tip of the nozzle on the enema tube
Apply petrolatum (petroleum jelly) or water-based lubricant to the tip of the 8 cm long nozzle. This will make it easier for you and make you feel comfortable when you insert the enema tube nozzle.
If you wish, you can also apply a lubricant around the anus
Method 2 of 3: Performing the Enema
Step 1. Lie on the floor and pull your knees toward your chest
When you are ready to perform the enema, remove your clothing and place the enema apparatus near a towel placed on the floor. Next, lie on your back and lift your knees up until you can easily touch your buttocks.
If you find it difficult to lie on your back, lie on your side on your left side. Choose the position that is most comfortable for you
Step 2. Insert the tip of the nozzle 8 cm long into the rectum
If the nozzle has a cap, remove it first. Next, push the tip of the nozzle into the rectum very gently. Do not insert the tip forcibly, and do it slowly. If you need to relax, take deep, slow breaths and imagine how good it would be if the constipation was gone.
- You may feel a little uncomfortable, but this procedure is actually not painful. The tip of the nozzle is round so you can insert it easily.
- If you are administering an enema on a small child, only insert the tip of the nozzle 4-5 cm deep into the rectum.
- Hold the nozzle with your thumb and forefinger about one finger away from the tip. If your finger has touched the skin, the nozzle is far enough in.
Step 3. Place or hang the enema bag about 30-60 cm higher than the rectum
Place the pouch on a solid surface or hang it on a small hook to raise it slightly higher. In this way, gravity will do its job to empty the contents of the pouch into the rectum. So you don't have to hold the bag all the time.
If using a single-use enema, you may have to squeeze the contents of the bag to get it into the rectum. With this type of enema, you have to do it slowly, and completely empty the bag
Step 4. Allow the bag contents to drain before you remove the nozzle
It may take about 5-10 minutes to drain the entire enema into the rectum completely. While waiting, try to stay relaxed, and don't move too much. Once the pouch is empty, remove the nozzle from the rectum slowly and carefully.
- It might be helpful to have something ready to distract you during this process, such as a book, music, or a game on your phone.
- If you experience cramps, try lowering the position of the bag to slow down the flow of the enema.
Step 5. Try to hold the enema solution for up to 15 minutes
Once the nozzle is removed, lie down and resist the urge to eviscerate as long as possible. It's best to hold the enema solution for about 15 minutes, but 5-10 minutes is actually enough to stimulate the bowels.
Step 6. Remove the enema in the toilet
After 15 minutes have passed, or you can't hold it in any longer, carefully get up and walk to the toilet. Next, remove all of the enema fluid from your intestines. After that, you can take a shower or clean the liquid stuck to the buttocks using a wet tissue.
- You may be pooping at this point, but it's okay if you don't.
- It's a good idea to stay near the toilet for the next hour or so as you may be pooping again during this time. However, after an hour has passed, you will be able to carry out your normal activities.
- You may experience some stomach cramps after the enema. If you feel faint or dizzy after the enema, lie down until the feeling goes away.
Step 7. Sterilize or dispose of the enema apparatus
If you are using a reusable enema kit, wash the nozzle and hose thoroughly with soapy water. Next, sterilize the equipment by placing it in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Wash the enema bag with warm water.
If you purchased a single-use enema kit, dispose of all equipment after use
Method 3 of 3: Getting Medical Help
Step 1. Go to the doctor if you haven't had a bowel movement in 3 days
Although enemas can relieve constipation quickly, you should see a doctor if you haven't had a bowel movement for 3 days. Your doctor will diagnose if something is causing your constipation, and you can ask if an enema is a good option for you.
If you experience frequent constipation, your doctor may also advise you to make lifestyle changes, such as drinking lots of water, or eating more fiber-rich or fermented foods
Step 2. Call your doctor if you experience any side effects after taking the enema
While it's normal to experience slight dizziness or stomach cramps after an enema, severe side effects can be a sign of an internal injury. Go to a doctor or hospital for a checkup if you experience any of the following after having an enema:
- Feeling very dizzy, weak and tired
- Faint
- Rash appears
- Can't pee
- Have severe and persistent diarrhea
- Constipation that gets worse
- Swollen feet or hands
Step 3. Go to the hospital immediately if the rectum is bleeding and the stomach is very painful
Doing the enema yourself risks creating a perforated intestinal wall. This is a very dangerous condition. You should get medical help right away if you have rectal bleeding, or you have severe cramping or pain in your stomach or lower back.
You may also have fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting
Tips
- The ideal temperature for the enema solution is the same as body temperature, or approximately 38 °C. If the temperature is too cold, you may experience cramps. If it is too hot, you may feel a burning sensation.
- Make sure everything you need is in an easy-to-reach place so you don't have to stretch or reach out uncomfortably during the enema.
Warning
- Always lubricate the entire enema nozzle.
- Do not give an enema to a child under 2 years of age, unless a doctor recommends it.
- Do not use anything other than a saline solution or factory-made enemas in the enema mixture you are using. Alcohol is a very dangerous substance because it can cause alcohol poisoning and even death.
