Commonly Asked Questions

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 is approximately 5 to 5 1/2 feet in length) is reached. Colon hydrotherapy is many more times effective. According to learned centenarian Dr. Norman Walker, "one colon irrigation is equivalent to 30 enemas."

Do the treatments hurt?

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

How much of the intestines are actually 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 intestines are not specifically involved in a colon hydrotherapy treatment. The small intestine may be cleansed with the help of an oral (herb based) intestinal cleanser.

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

If you have concern about your health or appropriateness of the colon hydrotherapy, you should consult a doctor. If you are diagnosed with diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, severe hemorrhoids, rectal or intestinal tumors, you would not be a candidate for colon hydrotherapy treatments. Professionally administered colon hydrotherapy is safe, and generally if you are free of the above mentioned conditions, a medical examination prior to therapy should not be necessary.

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

Modern colon hydrotherapy machines utilize pre-sterilized, 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 treatment take?

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

Does having a menstrual period at the time of a colon hydrotherapy session have any effect on the treatment?

No, in fact it's usually a good time to receive a treatment, since your body is already cleansing. Your flow will not interfere with the success of the treatment.

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

Eat lightly before the cleaning, be as relaxed as possible and maintain a positive, cheerful attitude.

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

Usually not, but since the cleansing will stir up a lot of old debris and toxins, you might experience some minor nausea or fatigue. 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 acidophilus after a colon cleansing because intestinal flora has been washed out of the colon?

It is recommended to use acidophilus, but not because the treatment washes out intestinal flora. Colon hydrotherapy cleansings does not wash out intestinal flora. Taking acidophilus subsequent to a colon cleansing is beneficial because it helps to improve the bacterial balance in the colon. The best method is to drink acidophilus for 2 weeks after the final therapy session.

Can I work directly after having colon hydrotherapy?

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

Carole Austin, RN, LMT

Carole Austin is a licensed massage therapist, an R.N. with a Masters degree in Counseling, and licensed in Florida to give colonic hydrotherapy. Carole has given workshops and classes in stress management, nutrition and weight reduction, relaxation techniques, self-massage and brain balancing techniques.

Carole's massage therapy techniques include Swedish massage, deep tissue work, Polarity therapy, and Cranio-sacral work.