Colonic Irrigation Process
What is Colonic Irrigation?
Colonic irrigation, also known as colon hydrotherapy, is a process in which water or other liquid solutions are injected deep into the colon to "cleanse" the colon of excess fecal matter and unhealthy bacteria and toxins. Colonic irrigation is a controversial subject, as some people believe it provides great benefits, while others believe it can be dangerous to your health. Others believe colonic irrigation should only be done in preparation for surgeries in which the colon needs to be cleared of feces.
Health Check
Before having a colonic irrigation, you should be thoroughly checked out by your primary care doctor for any health issues that may make the process dangerous for you. Problems such as hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, and colorectal cancer can leave the body open to infection from colonic irrigation, especially if not performed with high levels of sanitation.
Insertion
Colonic irrigation is done using a specialized tubing system that can be inserted directly into the rectum. While lying on your side, the lubricated end of the tubing will be inserted into your rectum. The tubing is disposable and is never used for more than one patient. The colonic therapist will then slowly turn on the water system, which will deliver warm purified liquid into your colon.
Massage
While the liquid is entering your colon, the therapist may gently massage your abdomen. This is done to help break up and release any waste products from the sides of the colon walls.
Evacuation
Once you feel full, the therapist will reverse the flow of the liquid, allowing it and any accompanying waste to exit the body through natural peristalsis out of the bowels. After the liquid has been evacuated from the system, the therapist will being the process again. This will continue anywhere from a half hour to an hour, depending on the session.
Dangers
Besides diseases and medical conditions that make colonic irrigation contraindicated, the process can also be dangerous to healthy individuals.