An enema is basically a bowel stimulant, quite similar to a laxative in function. However, the principal different in both the methods is that while laxatives are generally administered through oral means, an enema is administered directly into the colon, by inserting the device into the rectum. Enemas are generally used to treat conditions like constipation and bowel impactions. After an enema is done, there is a predetermined waiting time period after which the patient can eject faeces along with enema in the loo.
Enemas used to stimulate the bowel are generally constituted of water, or water along with baking soda or soap of a mild variety or other substitutes depending on the preference.
Enemas are also administered before surgical processes such as a colonoscopy, or to introduce substances to the bloodstream, sometimes even to pregnant women before labour to decrease the risk of faeces being passed at the time of labour.
Enemas used to stimulate the bowel are generally constituted of water, or water along with baking soda or soap of a mild variety or other substitutes depending on the preference.
Enemas are also administered before surgical processes such as a colonoscopy, or to introduce substances to the bloodstream, sometimes even to pregnant women before labour to decrease the risk of faeces being passed at the time of labour.