Re: follow the urge or hold?

Hi pjangel, I am a proponent of the "Listen to your body" philosophy, so if while taking an enema it becomes so uncomfortable, then go ahead and eliminate. How much can you take on your first try before things get to the point where you have to stop?

Typically, someone new to enemas may only be able to take between 1-2 pints on their first try. A lot depends on how must waste matter is filling your colon. The more old hardened waste, the less room there is for the enema water before the colon is distended to the point of discomfort.

This is why 2-3 enemas a day for the first week or so is usually recommended. With each evacuation, waste is eliminated and there is more room for the water from the next enema.

That waste matter has probably been accumulating for years, so you can't reasonably expect to get it all out overnight.

In summary, I encourage you to continue with enemas as needed, and each day try to take a few ounces more, until you are able over time to take the full bag.

Best wishes, Valerie Tweet