Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How big is the speculum?
A: The speculum is approximately the diameter of your thumb (a medium sized thumb, not the Jolly Green Giant's thumb). The speculum is well lubricated and inserted into the rectum only about two inches. Once inserted, there is no sensation of 'having something there'.
2. Am I going to have to rush to go to the toilet?
A: No, with the speculum inserted, filtered, temperature and pressure regulated water goes in one side of the speculum at the rate of a dripping tap and loosened feces comes out the other side of the speculum. (see picture) Unlike an enema, there is no 'urge' to defecate. Five to 20 gallons of water are used to continually flush the colon during a typical colonic (40-45 minutes) and we couldn't have you dancing on the bed. Relax, it's almost like a warm internal bath for your colon!
3. Who inserts the speculum?
A: With the assistance of the nurse, the two of you will be working as a team. While lying on your side, you will be inserting the well lubricated speculum with the nurse guiding you. The nurse will then attach the tubing. Once it's in place you will be lying on your back, covered by a sheet and/or blanket.
4. Do I have to wear a gown?
A: No, the only clothing removed are your pants and shoes. You can even wear your socks! You are covered with a sheet and/or blanket all the time.
5. Does it hurt?
A: Most of our clients do not feel any discomfort, but if you should experience any cramping, the nurse is with you and can do many things to correct that such as changing the temperature of the water, increasing/decreasing the flow of water, encourage you to breathe (some people forget due to nervousness), massage, etc.
6. Will I have diarrhea after I leave the clinic?
A: No, the nurse does a final massage after the colonic to massage the water out of the colon. You will get off of the bed and calmly walk to the washroom. (no need to trot! -pardon the pun)
7. How will I feel after the colonic?
A: Some clients feel energized afterwards, others feel relaxed. You may feel empty (no big surprise there) and may want to eat a light meal.
8. Is Colon Hydrotherapy covered by my health insurance?
A. While OHIP does not cover colon hydrotherapy, several extended health care providers are now covering colonics as a nursing act. We can provide you with an insurance package to send to your health care provider along with your invoices.
9. How often should I have these colonics?
This depends upon your goals. Some people want to come in for a basic cleanse program, typically around 10 colonics. Others come in for maintenance, sometimes once per season, once a month or annually. Still others choose colonics for specific problems such as diarhhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, crohn's disease, colitis, etc. Since each person's goals and needs are different, the nurse can give you a better idea after the first colonic. Ideally you want to be eliminating on your own 2-3 times a day without the use of laxatives and fiber supplements. If you are not eliminating your toxic waste this frequently, colonics can help you get there.