Enemas for Kids at Home: A Simple Parent’s Guide

What Is an Enema?

An enema is when you use a small tube to gently put liquid or a laxative into your child's bottom to help clear poop that might be stuck. It makes it softer and easier to push out.

If your child has severe or long-lasting constipation that doesn't get better with food or medicine, doctors may suggest giving them enemas at home. Based on the exact condition, the treatment can be expensive. Hence, you should include your child into your health insurance coverage.

How Does an Enema Work?

Putting any liquid into the rectum makes the large intestine feel like it is under pressure. This pressure tells the body that it needs to poop.

There are two main ways that enemas work:

• They add moisture to hard poop, which makes it easier to pass.

• They help push everything out by gently stretching the rectum.

Why Is an Enema Given to a Child?

A doctor may recommend an enema for kids if:

• Your child hasn’t gone to the toilet in a few days.

• Changes in diet, medications, or drinking more water have not worked.

• There is a serious blockage in the stool, which is called stool impaction.

• The bowel needs to be cleared before a medical test, like a colonoscopy or X-ray.

Types of Enemas

Doctors usually recommend one of these three types of enemas for kids:

• Sodium Phosphate Enema: Works quickly by pulling water into the intestines to help get rid of hard stool.

• Saline (Salt Water) Enema: It makes the stool softer by using plain salt water. Safer for kids and less severe cases of constipation.

• Mineral Oil Enema: Helps lubricate the bowel, which makes it easier for stool to come out. Often used when the stool is very dry and hard.

Side Effects and Risks

You should be aware of these risks:

• Your child might feel bloated or have cramps.

• Too many enemas can throw off the body's balance of salt and water.

• You could hurt the bowel if you push the tube in too hard.

• Infections can happen if you use dirty enema kits.

• Regular enemas can kill the good bacteria in the gut.

Consult with your doctor regarding these risks. Additionally, ensure you have cashless health insurance to cover any situation that might go wrong.

How to Give an Enema at Home?

Here’s what you will need:

• Enema bag and solution

• Silicone tubing with a soft tip

• Petroleum jelly

• A thick towel

• Videos, books, or toys for distraction

Step-by-step guide to give an enema:

1. Tell your child to pee first; it will help relieve pressure later.

2. Put a towel on the floor. Follow the directions to fill the enema bag. Close the tube with a clamp.

3. Position your child on their left side with their knees pulled up, or on their stomach with their knees tucked in and their bottom raised.

4. Apply petroleum jelly to both the tip and your child’s bottom.

5. Slowly insert the tube about 3 to 4 inches in. If your child is resisting, ask them to breathe through their mouth and push like they are pooping.

6. Unclamp the tube and lift the bag. Let the liquid flow in slowly until the bag is empty.

7. Keep your child in the same position for 15-20 minutes. Hold their buttocks gently to keep the tube in place.

8. After waiting, help them sit on the toilet or a bedpan. It can take 30-45 minutes for everything to come out.

9. Discard items that can only be used once, and wash any equipment that can be used again with hot, soapy water.

Conclusion

Constipation can be tiring for both children and parents. While enemas provide quick relief in stubborn cases, they are not meant for everyday use. Think of them as a backup plan that needs to be handled with care, clear instructions, and the right help.

Moreover, if your child has ongoing stomach problems or needs medical care, having the right health insurance can give you peace of mind because it will cover paediatric visits, tests, and treatments when they are needed.

One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner.

Sources: aboutkidshealth.ca, clevelandclinic.org, childrenscolorado.org, mayoclinic.org, clinicaltrials.gov

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on August 22, 2025