Having an enema

We ask you to have an enema before you have a flexible sigmoidoscopy. The enema helps clear your bowel, so the endoscopist can see all of your bowel clearly.

The enema is a small bottle of fluid that you put into your bottom, using a small tube.

Enemas are safe, gentle and surprisingly easy to use. Most people find it convenient and comfortable to use the enema at home.

If you use the enema yourself at home, do this before you come for your appointment. Please contact the endoscopy unit to arrange to collect the enema, and instructions on using the enema.

The enema can also be given by a nurse once you have had your pre-assessment when you arrive in the endoscopy unit. You do not need to arrive any earlier than the appointment time we have given you.

How and when to use the enema

Make sure you have read through this information carefully before using the enema.

The enema is a small bottle of fluid that is put in your bottom via a small tube.

Use the enema up to 2 hours before you leave for the hospital on the day of your procedure. Please do not have it more than 2 hours before your procedure as your bowel will fill with stool (poo) again.

Use the enema even if you have recently had a poo. 

You will usually need to go to the toilet within 15 minutes of using it.

You must not eat or drink anything after the enema until after your procedure.

When not to use the enema

Do not use the enema if you are having treatment for kidney disease, colitis or have bloody diarrhoea.

If you have any concerns about using an enema, contact the endoscopy unit and speak to a nurse.

Before using the enema

You will need a:

• jug or bowl of warm tap water
• towel
• bed to lie down on

Make sure you are near a toilet. Find somewhere comfortable to lie down and have a towel to lie on in case of leakage.

How to use the enema

1. Put the unopened enema bottle or pack into the jug of warm (not hot) water for about 5 minutes. This will warm the enema to body temperature.
2. Spread the towel on the bed, where your bottom will be.
3. Remove the enema bottle or pack from the jug of warm water.
4. Remove the cap from the nozzle of the enema bottle.
5. Lie on your left side, on the towel, with your knees up towards your chest.
6. Put the full length of the nozzle carefully and gently into your bottom, up to the disk at the end of the nozzle.
7. Squirt in all the contents until empty.
8. Gently remove the nozzle from your bottom, and stay lying down.
9. Try to hold the liquid inside your bottom for about 5 to 10 minutes. Do not worry if you cannot hold it that long. To take your mind off the enema, you might find it helpful to read, or watch TV.
10. When you can no longer hold the enema, and you have the urge to go to the toilet, get up slowly and walk to the toilet.
11. Make sure you do not get up too quickly to go to the toilet. Some people feel faint or dizzy when they try to get up. If this happens to you, lie back down until the feeling passes
12. Go to the toilet, but do not worry if you do not poo at first.
13. Stay near a toilet for the next hour.

Some people might have mild stomach cramps for a short while.

The effects of the enema will then stop, and you should have no problems travelling to the endoscopy unit.

If you do not have any bowel movements within an hour, or if you have any significant bleeding, contact the endoscopy unit for more information.