How to do an enema (ecnema) to clean the intestines at home

The enema, enema or suck, is a procedure that consists of placing a small tube through the anus, in which water or some other substance is introduced with the aim of washing the intestines, being normally indicated in cases of imprisonment of the womb, to relieve discomfort and facilitate the passage of stools.

Thus, the cleaning enema can be done at home in cases of constipation to stimulate bowel movement or in other cases, as long as there is a medical indication. This cleaning can also be recommended at the end of pregnancy, as pregnant women usually have a trapped intestine, or for exams, such as an enema or barium enema, which aims to evaluate the shape and function of the large intestine. and the rectum. Understand how the barium enema exam is performed.

However, the enema should not be done more than once a week, as it can cause changes in the intestinal flora and cause changes in intestinal transit, worsening constipation or leading to chronic diarrhea.

How to make the enema correctly

To make a cleaning enema at home, it is necessary to buy an enema kit at the pharmacy, which costs on average R$60.00, and follow these steps:

1. Assembling the enema kit connecting the tube to the water tank and the plastic tip;
2. Fill the tank of the enema kit with 1 liter of filtered water at 37ºC;
3. Open the tap of the enema kit and let a little water drain until the entire tube is filled with water;
4. Hang the water tank at least 90 cm from the floor;
5. Lubricate the plastic tip with Vaseline or some lubricant for the intimate area;
6. Adopt one of these positions: lying on your side with knees bent or lying on your back with knees bent towards your chest;
7. Introduce the tip gently into the anus towards the navel, not forcing the insertion so as not to cause injury;
8. Open the kit faucet to allow water to enter the intestine;
9. Hold the position and wait until you feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement, usually between 2 to 5 minutes;
10. Repeat the cleaning enema 3 to 4 times to completely cleanse the intestines.

In cases where the person cannot evacuate with just the lukewarm enema, a good solution is to mix 1 cup of olive oil in the enema water. However, the effectiveness is greater when using 1 or 2 pharmacy enemas, such as the Microlax or Fleet enema, mixed in water. See more about using the Fleet enema.

Still, if after mixing a pharmacy enema in the enema water the person still doesn't feel like having a bowel movement, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist to diagnose the problem and start the appropriate treatment. In addition, it is important to have a diet that favors bowel movement, that is, rich in fiber and fruits. Find out which fruits loosen the intestines and also some options for laxative teas.

When to go to the doctor

It is recommended to see a gastroenterologist or go to the emergency room when:

• There has been no passing of stool for more than 1 week;
• After mixing a drugstore enema in water and not feeling like having a bowel movement;
• Signs of severe constipation, such as a very swollen belly or severe abdominal pain.

In these cases, the doctor will carry out diagnostic tests, such as an MRI, to assess whether there is any problem that may be causing the constant constipation, such as twisted intestines or hernias, for example.