Frequently Asked Questions about Colon Hydrotherapy

Is colon hydrotherapy safe?

Yes. In fact with new colon therapy equipment, treatments are much safer than the common enema.

How does a colon hydrotherapy treatment compare to an enema?

An enema only reaches the rectum and lower part of the colon, whereas with colon hydrotherapy, the entire length of the colon (the large intestinal tract approximately 5 to 5½ feet in length) is reached.

Do colonic treatments hurt?

No. In fact many people report their colon hydrotherapy sessions as being both refreshing and relaxing.

How much of the intestines are cleansed during a colon hydrotherapy treatment?

During a treatment it is possible for a professional colon therapist to cleanse the full length of the colon (large intestine). The small intestine are not involved in a colon hydrotherapy treatment.

Should I see my doctor before my first colon hydrotherapy session?

Your colonic practitioner should send you a detailed consultation form BEFORE your treatment. The form should list conditions which would contraindicate a treatment. All IPCH / ARCH registered practitioners have to be medically qualified or have extensive body therapy qualifications and experience before their extensive colonic training. They will be aware of what conditions would exclude you from treatment.

If you have a concern about your health or the appropriateness of colon hydrotherapy you can consult a doctor – please bear in mind most doctors do not have training in colonics and therefore may be reticent to recommend it

If you are diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, severe haemorrhoids, rectal or intestinal tumours, you may not be a candidate for colon hydrotherapy treatments.

Professionally administered colon hydrotherapy is safe, and generally if you are free of the aforementioned conditions, a medical examination prior to therapy, should not be necessary.

Diane Nivern is registered with the General Naturopathic Council which is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority to whom doctors are able to refer patients to for treatment.

Is there any possibility of bacterial or viral contamination from prior use of the colon hydrotherapy machine?

Modern colon hydrotherapy treatment utilises pre-sterilised, disposable hoses and speculums. These disposables are used only once during a single therapy session. Properly administered, there is absolutely no danger of contamination.

How long does a colonic treatment take?

Actual treatment time is about 45 minutes, but you should plan a total session visit of one hour in duration.

Can you have a colonic if you are on your period?

Yes – your practitioner can accommodate for this during the treatment. Use a tampon if possible

What should I do to prepare for a colon hydrotherapy cleansing?

We recommend that you have your normal food / drinks at your usual times before the treatment, be as relaxed as possible and maintain a positive, cheerful attitude.

Will I experience any intestinal discomfort or fatigue after the cleansing?

Usually not. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to rest and apply a warm heating pad to the abdomen. If you wish, a mild vegetable broth or peppermint tea is usually soothing at this time. Any discomfort will usually pass within 24 hours.

Do I need to take pro-biotics after a colon cleansing because intestinal flora has been washed out of the colon?

Probiotic bacteria will be beneficial to help relieve the issues which have contributed to you seeking a colonic, but not because the treatment washes out intestinal flora.

Colon hydrotherapy cleansings do not wash out intestinal flora. Taking probiotics subsequent to a colon cleansing is beneficial, because it helps to improve the bacterial balance in the colon. The best method is to take oral probiotics or consume Greek yoghurt or kefir as part of your daily diet

Can I go back to work after having colon hydrotherapy?

Certainly. You can work just as you would after a regular bowel movement.

Is a colonic painful?

It rarely is. Usually, painful experiences are the result of resistance and tension. A professional colon therapist is skilled at putting you at your ease and minimizing discomfort. Most people actually enjoy the colonic. Sometimes during a colonic, the colon muscles will contract suddenly expelling considerable amounts of liquid and waste into the rectum. This may feel like cramping or gas, and may create a feeling of urgency to empty the rectum. Such episodes, if they do occur, are brief and easily tolerated.

Is it embarrassing to have a colonic?

No, you will fully maintain your personal dignity. You will be in a private room with only your therapist, who fully appreciates the sensitivity of the colonic procedure and will help you feel at ease. Your emotions will be acknowledged and honoured. After the gentle insertion of a small tube into the rectum, you are completely covered. Rubber tubing carries clean water in and waste out in a gravity-pressured system. The mess and odour sometimes present during an enema simply does not exist with a colonic.

What can I expect afterwards?

Most likely, you’ll feel great. Probably you’ll feel lighter and enjoy a sense of well being.

Are colonics habit forming?

A colon therapist is dedicated to your health, Our fulfilment comes from assisting you in healing your colon, not in making you dependent upon colonics. Actually, one of its features is that a colonic can be used to tone the colon muscle so that the colon doesn’t perform so sluggishly.  It may take a few days for bowel movements to return after a colonic.  Once a series of colonics is completed, the colon will begin to function like Mother Nature intended. Colonics give you a feeling of being lighter, cleaner and healthier with a sense of well-being.  Dietary changes may be necessary to ensure long lasting and vital health.

Is there a special kind of water used for colonic hydrotherapy?

We use highly filtered water, which passes through three separate filters before being heated to the correct temperature.