Introduction | Types of Enemas | Best Enema For Constipation | Customizable Enema Options
Reviewed by Christine Kijek, Registered Colorectal Nurse on, May 14, 2022
An enema is used for many reasons. Just as there are many reasons, there are different types of enemas, each of which contains different ingredients and works differently in the body. While some may choose an enema to soften stool or for routine colon cleansing, the reason for using an enema may have more of a medical necessity. Enemas have been used as part of alternative health therapy for some time, but no matter the reason they all have basically one thing in common: cleansing.
Enemas are not exactly a household word. While everyone may know generally what they are, there may be misunderstandings about their benefits and how they work. An enema is a fluid injected into the lower intestines and colon via the rectum. The most common use for an enema is to relieve constipation or impacted stool. Those with bowel dysfunction may use an enema to deal with fecal incontinence as well as constipation. While many people use oral laxatives or suppositories, sometimes the direct use of an enema can also help.
While the endgame (no pun intended) of all enema options is similar, the different types of enemas work differently within the body. There are some enemas that are designed for specific medical procedures (such as a barium enema) or more importantly, relief from constipation or impacted stool.
Below is a chart from atitesting.com giving examples of fluid amounts:
Fluid amounts for large volume enemas | |
Infant | 50 to 150 ml |
Toddler | 250 to 350 ml |
Child | 300 to 500 ml |
Adolescent | 500 to 750 ml |
Adult | 750 to 1000 ml |
Many people have sought out enemas as an alternative therapy. The use of a colonic to cleanse the colon has become quite popular for the removal of feces and nonspecific toxins from the colon and intestinal tract according to enemabasics.com. These enemas can have side effects, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea not to mention electrolyte imbalance, so make sure to discuss these with your doctor or nurse before deciding to buy enema.
To begin with, anybody can administer an enema for themselves. All you really need is the right information and a little concentration. To administer or use an enema on your own you need -
Instructions -
In the fight against constipation or colon irrigation, there are many enema options available.
The Fleet Saline Laxative Enema provided a soft stool mass and increased bowel action that leads to a bowel movement within 1-5 minutes. It is perfect for bowel cleansing before a rectal exam. Its disposable squeeze bottle is pre-lubricated and should not be refilled with other liquid. This product is fairly easy to use and is completely latex-free. Its protective shield protects the enema from contamination. Also, the product has a flexible comfort tip that is pre-lubricated for easy and painless insertion. The one-way safety valve regulates the flow and helps in the avoidance of reflux. Other than this, this pediatric enema is suitable for kids aged 2-11 years. This is widely used as an instant relief remedy for occasional constipation.
The instructions for how to use an enema are mentioned above. However, there are certain precautions you must take while administering it yourself. Some things to keep in mind are -
GeriCare Stool Softener Docusate Sodium helps soften the stool and pass with more comfort when experiencing constipation. It is highly recommended to take it as a preventative measure before surgery or when taking medication. It provides a gentle and safe over-the-counter medication without any harsh side effects that many laxatives can have. GeriCare stool softener is stimulant-free, increasing the water content in the stool to make it softer to pass.
Magic Bullet Suppository can disseminate within minutes of insertion because it is water soluble. It works after contacting the intestinal wall, usually within 15 to 60 minutes. The active ingredient in Magic Bullet Suppository is bisacodyl, 10mg, and the base is polyethylene glycol, which is water soluble. Unlike other laxatives based on bisacodyl, suppository does not have an oil base (hydrogenated vegetable oil). Before the bisacodyl can induce the colon to contract and expel the feces in these other suppositories, the oil base must dissolve.
Therafin E-Z Reach Suppository Inserter and Digital Bowel Stimulator come with a nontoxic, molded plastic handle with a transparent, adjustable vinyl strap. Spring-loaded tip on inserter prevents suppository from being expelled until fully inserted. Ejects when pressure is applied to the plunger. It is designed for use on an elevated toilet seat.
Sure Grip Suppository Inserter adjusts to different angles for insertion. Inserter and stimulator are attached to a formed 4" plastic handle that loops over either hand. The Sure-Grip Digital Bowel Stimulator is designed to provide stimulation for independent bowel management.
Not all enemas need to be in a prefilled, ready-to-use bottle. Some are customizable according to user preferences. The set allows users to use any type of liquid they want to use.
Whether you choose to use any enema kits for relieving constipation or as alternative medicine, there are plenty of options for just about everyone.
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Kevin Cleary has been a Health Products For You contributor for many years and has a degree in marketing. His health and wellness journey has a very personal meaning and has guided him in his content writing for HPFY.
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