An enema is a procedure where liquid is put into the rectum, which is the lower part of the large intestine. Enemas can be used to treat constipation (when your child has trouble pooping) or to give medicines. You can safely give your child an enema at home.
The enema involves putting the small tube or nozzle into your child's anus (the opening where poop comes out). Fluid from the bottle or bag will flow through the tube or nozzle into the rectum. This fluid helps poop leave the body in a safe and gentle way.
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Make sure that the enema you're using is the right one for your child's age and weight. Don't use an adult enema.
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Wash your hands with soap and water.
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Warm the enema liquid by running the bag, bulb, or bottle under warm water. Test the liquid on your wrist to make sure it isn't hot.
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Have your child either:
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Lie down on the left side, with knees bent up toward the chest.
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Lie facing down with knees pulled under the body and with the bottom in the air.
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Place a pad or thick towels under your child's bottom.
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Keep a bedpan or bucket nearby in case your child can't hold in the fluid.
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Create a relaxing atmosphere for your child. This can include music, TV, video games, a toy, someone reading a story, or rubbing their back — anything that will be calming and distracting.
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Show your child the tip of the tube or nozzle so they can see what you will be inserting.
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If you're using an enema bag, hang it or have someone hold it about 12 to 18 inches above your child. Lower the tube so that the fluid fills the tube.
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If there's a cap on the tip of the tube or nozzle, remove it. Pinch the tube or nozzle closed so the fluid doesn't flow out.
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Coat the tip with a water-based gel. This makes it easier to slide the tip into the anus.
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Encourage your child to take slow, deep breaths.
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Gently spread the buttocks so you can see the anus.
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With your other hand, put the lubricated tip into the anus until the tip of the tube is fully in the rectum. This is about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.6 centimeters) for kids and no more than 4 inches (10.2 centimeters) for teens.
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Point it toward your child's belly button as you insert it, unless instructed otherwise by your health care provider.
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Stop if the tube doesn't go in easily. Wait a few minutes and then try again. Asking your child to push gently (as if pooping) may make it easier to slide in.
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Hold the tip in place.
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If you're using a bottle with a nozzle, gently squeeze the bottle.
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If you're using a hanging enema bag and tube, the liquid will start to run through the tube and into your child's rectum. Don't squeeze the bag.
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If your child has belly pain, stop the enema (stop squeezing the bottle or pinch the tube). Encourage your child to relax and take deep breaths. When the pain stops, start giving the enema again. If using a bag and tube, it may help to lower the bag so the liquid flows more slowly.
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When the tube or bottle is nearly empty, remove the tip from your child's rectum.
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Your child should stay lying down and holding in the enema fluid for the time recommended by the health care provider. It may help to gently hold the buttocks together with your hands.
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After the recommended time, have your child sit on the toilet and let the enema fluid and poop come out. The poop may be watery. Your child may have to go to the toilet more than once.
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Clean or throw away the enema container and tube or nozzle according to the manufacturer's directions. Wash your hands when done.
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Don't give your child enemas more often than directed. Don't give an enema to a child younger than 2 years of age.