Avoid enema during pregnancy:

What are the side effects of enema?

Enema is the method of introducing liquids to the colon through the anus. It is the most natural method of cleaning the colon and can provide relief from the bowel problems. It is done for detoxification of the body, reducing constipation, treating ulcerative colitis and maintaining the youth. In older time’s enema used to be carried out quite frequently rather than at present. If done properly it is the natural method of clearing the bowels that brings natural movements that cannot be provided by laxatives.

Enema can be done easily and it does not require any particular preparation. It is generally done in the morning on empty stomach and after the nature’s call. There is no special diet as such to prepare for enema. For complete detoxification there are certain modifications in the diet that needs to be considered before performing enema:

1. Avoid intake of flour, aerated drinks or alcohol one day before and on the day of enema.
2. Avoid vegetables like jack fruit, potatoes and egg plant.
3. Exclude consumption of bananas on the day before or the day of enema.

Enema should be avoided during pregnancy as it can increase the chance of abortions. It should also be avoided by people suffering from extreme conditions of piles or ulcers of the rectum. Even weak people or those suffering from certain illness should not do enema.

Certain side effects of enema are:

1. If enema is administered improperly or if it is carried out frequently, it may cause electrolyte imbalance and rupture of the bowels and rectal tissues leading to internal bleeding. Internal bleeding can expose the person towards infection. If there is rupture of the intestine, it is essential to consult the doctor.
2. Usage of the tube and solution can stimulate the vagus nerve which can trigger bradycardia where the resting heart rate is under 60 beats per minute.
3. Avoid enema for people suffering from abdominal pain that is yet to be diagnosed as it can cause the appendix to rupture.
4. Sometimes the water may not flow in or is obstructed. In such case, the intestinal walls may obstruct the catheter. This can be overcome if the catheter is moved a little out and is again inserted inside.
5. Avoid enema in people with heart disease, tumor in the rectum, suffering from diverticulitis and Crohn's disease. It should not be carried out soon after the surgery of the bowel.