FAQs

During the first treatment a case history is taken followed by dietary recommendations to help your gut restore its natural balance and function. The procedure will be explained and you’ll have a chance to ask any questions.

The appointment will last around an hour, and the colonic itself will take between 30 to 45 minutes. During this time warm filtered water is gently introduced into the colon via the rectum (the speculum is inserted only 5cm). As the warm water enters, you’ll feel a fullness as your colon fills up, then a relaxing feeling as it empties. This filling and emptying is repeated several times, whilst the use of special techniques including ultra-sonic massage, acupressure and reflexology points, stimulate the release of toxins and stored matter. Herbs can be used to stimulate or relax the bowel depending on whether you have an overactive or underactive bowel. Probiotic implants can be used where dysbiosis (where the bacteria in your gut is out of balance) is indicated.

I use a closed system machine which means clean warm filtered water is fed gently in to the bowel, and the water and waste is flushed out through a pipe, ensuring no fuss, no mess and no smells.

Your dignity is preserved at all times. You’ll be given privacy to change and have access to private toilet facilities. You will only be exposed for a few seconds for the insertion of the speculum, and after that you’ll be covered throughout the treatment.

Most people find the procedure to be quite relaxing, with no discomfort. The colon fills and empties regularly as part of its normal function, so the treatment is nothing new. You may feel varying sensations of fullness and movement in your abdomen throughout the treatment.

Normally a minimum of three treatments, if you have never had colonics before, is needed to adequately clean the whole of the large intestine. However this is a variable factor depending on age, dietary habits, lifestyle and presenting symptoms. I will advise you on this during the first treatment.

Not at all. Your therapy will take place in a private treatment room by a trained therapist who understands the sensitivity of the procedure. It is perfectly normal to be a little embarrassed, but your therapist will completely understand and will try to put you at your ease. Once the tube has been inserted, you’ll remain covered for the rest of the treatment.

Not at all. It may feel a little strange as the small tube is inserted, and you may have a natural urge to squeeze it out again, but this passes quickly. Your therapist will then closely control the filling and emptying to ensure that you remain comfortable at all times. Occasionally the colon may contract during the treatment, giving a cramping sensation but this is easily tolerated and passes as soon as the bowel empties again.

Yes. The water is introduced at low level pressure (lower than the pressure caused naturally in the bowel during peristalsis and your natural bowel movements) so there is no danger. All equipment used is in sterile packs and disposed of after each treatment.

Most people will benefit from a colonic. ARCH members are professional therapists and do not make exaggerated claims about ‘curing’ digestive problems. However, experience shows us that colonics can provide relief from the symptoms of a wide range of digestive disorders, including IBS, constipation, bloating and flatulence. Many of our clients find that colonics offer help where modern medicine has failed, especially where symptoms have been dismissed under the catch-all diagnosis of IBS.

Colonic hydrotherapy is not just for digestive problems, it can also work to keep your bowels healthy, in the same way that visiting the gym can help keep you fit.

However, there are some circumstances in which the treatment is not recommended:

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Severe haemorrhoids
• Severe anaemia
• Rectal bleeding
• Heart disease
• Strangulated abdominal or inguinal hernias
• Fissures or fistulas
• Kidney failure / insuffiency
• Bowel or rectal cancer
• Liver disease
• Inflammatory bowel disease ie Colitis, Crohn’s disease, Diverticulitis
• GI haemorrhage / perforation

You are also advised not to have a colonic if you think you may be pregnant. However, there is no reason not to have the treatment during your menstrual period.

Get in touch and I can advise you on whether colonic hydrotherapy would be beneficial for you.

Most of the important bowel bacteria are present on the bowel wall and are not removed during colonic hydrotherapy. Since these good bacteria breed best in a balanced environment, a colonic cleanse may actually improve their environment and increase their numbers. The good bacteria that is removed will replenish within 36 hours. If it appears that your bowel bacteria may be out of balance, I might suggest a probiotic implant and/or probiotics after your treatment.

When you get off the couch you’ll be given plenty of time in the private toilet for any excess water or waste to be eliminated. There is no rush whatsoever. You will be given an Aftercare sheet with advice for the following 24-48 hours, but generally you will be able to carry on with your normal routine.