Just used rowasa enema for the first time

Well, after stopping by two pharmacies to find someone who had rowasa enema's in stock (Walgreens), I came home with 4 briefcases full of butt juice tonight. I felt like I was walking out of the grocery store with bags full of groceries - had no idea the size of the boxes these things come in.

I just used one a generic enema for the first time, which was probably one of the most intimidating things I've ever done. I know, I'm a wuss, but this is all new to me. First impressions:

1. I've never stuck anything up there, and it was hard. It didn't hurt, but it was difficult to determine how far in I was, etc. Hopefully this will get better with time?
2. The aforementioned miscalculation resulted in some spillage. Also not pleasant - but not really a big deal.
3. I'm at almost 1 hr now, and it seems to be going alright though I do have an urge to go and some weird stomach (butt) rumbles. I can deal with it though.

Anything else I should know? Anyone have any 'hot tips' they want to give me to make this process more successful/conmfortable? What do you wish someone had told you when you started on them?

Thanks!

Just wanted to post a quick update and say that I kept this in all night. In the 3 movements I've had this morning, I haven't had any blood (for the first time in 2 months). I'm having some crazy bowel noises, but I can live with that. Overall, I'm very happy so far.

markb

your post made me laugh with your spot-on description of the 4 briefcases of enemas. Not too inconspicuous is it?
I'm not too shy after years of UC but switched my pharmacy when for the 3rd time in a year the really stupid pharmacy tech in front of others waiting in line asked me "What's it for hon? IBS?" as I hauled my enemas off the counter.

There is a drive-through at Walgreens (where I now go) but I'm thinking they won't fit in the drawer lol.

BTW good job retaining the enema all night! You're doing it right. My only tip (which is for winter use not summer) get the enema to body temp before using so it isn't a big shock causing spasm. I put mine under my arm while reading before bed.

Definitely get the air out before using! I wish someone had told me that with my first enemas. So much unnecessary discomfort. The rowasa enemas gave me gas/rumbly tummy initially, too. This has gotten better with time. Be careful with spillage as they do stain. As for how to insert, I followed the package instructions; you will have lots of opportunities for practice and this will get easier. You'll soon be a pro. Glad they seem to be doing their thing. Good luck.

totally agree about getting the air out! I found out that tip here on this board, this year, after using the darn enemas for almost 10 years .... ignorant about the skilz. Now I have no bubbly bowel, it's awesome.

I have noticed that my [already slow] bowels slow down even more when I use my mesalamine. This week I used the enema on Thursday night and today it's Saturday and I'm finally moving my bowels. thank goodness.

Kazbern, thanks for pointing out that it seems to slow your bowels, as I feel the same way. I had very small movements yesterday (without any blood) and today I've had 1 'normal' bowel movement for the first time in months. These things are really working well so far - I hope it stays that way!!

I got the air out of the enemas for the first time last night but unfortunately I still have a lot of gas. I read this was a side effect, but seriously... I've never had this much gas. I was worried about scaring my wife a couple rooms away with this stuff - so loud!

Either way, I'll make it work. Not excited about being gassy at work Tuesday, buy it's still better than bleeding.

Mark...it doesn't slow down your bms..that would be the inflammation site (where it's limited to) and the healing process.

Is it actual gas or the extra movement/activity in your colon that's loud?

My morning bms after an enema are louder..lol. sometimes built up gas and the start of a bm can come out fairly forceful. But, I also think part of it is what I have eaten the day/night before.

For the gut activity, I use antispasmodics...they help a lot.

Your gas should be less during the day, however....what are you eating for breakfast?

q

If you can have an egg and toast in the morning and nix the activia and cereal, you might have less gas.

q