An enema is the process of administering liquid into the colon with the purpose of stimulating stool evacuation. This technique helps relieve severe constipation, clear out the colon, and aid in the detection of colon cancer and polyps.

Enemas are usually performed under medical supervision to prepare patients for surgical procedures or imaging studies e.g. barium enema. However, home enema kits for constipation relief are also available at pharmacies. This is because, when performed properly, home enemas are generally safe.

An Enema Kit

The components of an enema kit are:

• a bag or a pot to hold the enema solution
• a long colon tube or nozzle, which is inserted into the rectum

Various materials are used to make an enema kit—rubber, PVC, silicone, or stainless steel.

A tubing clamp may or may not be included in the kit to control the flow of the liquid.

Nozzle vs. Tube

Enema nozzles come in all sizes, shapes, and materials but have the drawback of potentially causing injury. They also cannot go deep into the colon and may cause leakage of the enema solution. Thus, colon tubes are preferred to nozzles.

Enema tubing or hose is preferably transparent so that the liquid is visible and is made of silicone or PVC. Good-quality enema tubes are free of phthalates (which can cause damage to liver, kidneys, reproductive system, and lungs) and BPA (harmful to endocrine system). People with latex (rubber) sensitivity prefer medical grade pvc OR silicone tubes over other materials.

Enema hoses are manufactured to be compatible with most enema kits available in the market.

Colon tubes make enema administration efficient

Usually, a colon tube has an inner diameter of 0.8 cm. Thinner tubes are preferred over thicker ones as they can slide easily into the rectum and have less discomfort. Thinner tubes also prevent the release of a large volume of liquid at once, which can cause painful abdominal cramps.

Colon tubes can be inserted deeper into the colon for a better cleanse and are more comfortable than nozzles. They are also able to deliver liquid higher up into the colon, hence are recommended for therapeutic enemas and high enemas.

Soulgenie provides a wide range of Colon tubes at special wholesale prices. These include the most popular disposable medical grade PC ones and even the rubber colon tubes.

Tips to reduce discomfort during enema

1) Try to relax your rectal muscles instead of clenching them. When performing an enema at home, it may help to first soak in a hot bath or practice deep breathing.

2) Breathe in deeply while inserting the colon tube, then slowly breathe out after the tube is in place. While the liquid is being delivered to the colon, continue breathing rhythmically.

3) Bearing down (as if trying to pass stools) while attempting to insert the colon tube may help relax the rectal muscles.

Remember: It is normal to feel some discomfort while administering an enema, but there should be no pain. If the process is painful, it may be due to tears in the rectal lining or haemorrhoids. In such cases, a doctor should be consulted.