How to give an enema -- tips and guidelines

An enema is a natural and safe method for cleansing the colon. When an enema is administered properly, it cleanses the colon thoroughly and drives out all the toxic wastes and fecal matters from there. An enema is generally administered by a nurse. But if necessary, self administration is also possible.

The following equipments are used for administering an enema:

Enema bag/can: A stainless steel can is generally used to give enema to somebody else. For self administration, a hot water bottle and a syringe are used. Disposable enema bags are also available.

Colon tube: This is a rubber tube attached to a hard plastic tip. The length of the tube is generally 18 - 30 inches.

Enema soap: This is a mild liquid soap used during enema. It can be also used on infants.

Lubricant: Some lubricant has to be used to make the insertion of the colon tube easier. Vaseline, cold cream or K -Y jelly may be used for this purpose.

A pad: During the enema, this is placed under the buttocks. Instead of a pad, a heavy bath towel may also be used.

When you are administering the enema to yourself, it is best to take it lying down. The bag should be hanged at least 18/24 inches above the rectum. Place the pad or the bath towel where you will be lying down. While preparing the solution, make sure that the temperature of the water is slightly above normal body temperature. For a salt solution enema, add salt to the warm water. For a soap solution, add some mild enema soap such as castile soap to the water. If castile soap is not available, any mild toilet soap may be used. But never use any harsh soap like dish washing soap for this purpose as it may lead to various complications.

Hang the bag from a hook and fill it with the enema solution. Now lubricate the nozzle as well as your anal area with sufficient amounts of K-Y jelly, Vaseline or cold cream. It will help to insert the rectal tube easily. Now gently insert the rectal tube into the rectum and allow the enema solution to flow. Try to retain the solution for a while(five to fifteen minutes). Now go to the toilet and flush out the enema.

After taking a soap solution enema, it is advised that you should again take a fresh water enema to rinse any residue of the soap solution which may be left in the colon. After the process is over, the equipment should be cleaned thoroughly with worm soap water and left to dry.