Should I Use Soapy Water in My Enema Bag?

Soapsuds enemas are among the most widely used enemas for a variety of conditions including constipation, fecal impaction and cleansing the colon and rectum before medical diagnostic procedures. Some soaps are safer to use than others. Soaps can also be used with other additives in an enema solution to cleanse the colon and provide better cleansing and relief from uncomfortable digestive symptoms.

Constipation

Ensure the enema tubing is clamped shut. Use 2 to 3 drops of hand soap into an enema bag filled with 2 quarts of filtered water that has been heated to 103 degrees F. Hold the enema bag closed tightly. Shake the enema bag thoroughly to mix the soapsuds into the water. Get into a position for administering the enema. Insert the rectal applicator. Release the clamp to begin the enema. Soapsuds enemas work to fill the colon with water to soften hardened fecal matter and to stimulate a bowel movement through contractions of the colon caused by irritation from the soapsuds solution. Retain the administration position for a minimum of 5 minutes before moving to the toilet to expel the enema.

Colon Cleansing

Colon cleansing, through the use of a soapsuds enema, is beneficial in cleansing the colon before medical testing. Prepare and administer the soapsuds enema the same way you would use a soapsuds enema to relieve constipation. Use abdominal massage during the administration of a colon cleansing enema to ensure the solution flows deeply into the colon. Massage from the bottom left of the colon working toward your right side and up to the chest just below the ribs.

Fecal Impaction

Soapsuds and Epsom salt enemas work to relieve the fecal impaction caused by severe constipation. Manual fecal evacuation may be required by inserting a gloved lubricated finger inside the rectum to remove a small amount of impacted fecal matter before the enema can be administered. Instill 2 to 3 drops of gentle hand soap and 2 tsp. Epsom salt into an enema bag filled with hot water. Administer the enema solution using abdominal massage for better absorption of the enema. Retain the enema for a minimum of 5 minutes, preferably longer, for best results in relieving fecal impaction.