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What is an Enema Nozzle?

Tara Barnett
Tara Barnett

An enema nozzle is the part of the enema apparatus that is inserted into the rectum. It is usually directly connected to the enema tubing, although it is almost always removable. Fluid flows through the tubing and into the enema nozzle, entering the body through the nozzle's opening. When the fluid is to be expelled, the nozzle is usually removed from the body, although there are specialized nozzles with multiple holes for the evacuation of fluids. Enema nozzles must be meticulously cleaned after every use so that users will not become ill from a dirty nozzle.

There are numerous enema nozzle designs, each with slightly different benefits. No matter the design, the nozzle must always be lubricated prior to insertion into the body for reasons of comfort and safety. An enema nozzle should never be rough or made of a breakable material. Any sharp edges could seriously injure the enema recipient and potentially even cause death.

A reusable enema bag and nozzle.
A reusable enema bag and nozzle.

One of the simplest enema nozzle designs is a thin tip that serves only to move fluid into the rectum. It usually has only one hole, and may look like a tapered extension of the enema tubing. These may be made of many materials, although plastic is a popular choice. Frequently, these nozzles are disposable and changed often.

There are a variety of more complex enema nozzles. One popular design is the inflatable enema nozzle. These items slide easily into the anal cavity with lubrication, and then expand to a size that cannot be withdrawn. Inflation is usually accomplished by use of a hand held bulb. This design prevents the fluid inside the body from leaking out and allows the enema recipient to relax his or her muscles for the duration of the enema.

Epsom salt, which can be used to make an enema.
Epsom salt, which can be used to make an enema.

Another design involves two tubes in the nozzle. One introduces fluid into the body, and the other carries it away. Sometimes, this is called an "in/out nozzle." The tube that carries away waste is usually placed over a waste receptacle such as a toilet. This makes it possible to evacuate waste without removing the nozzle and to introduce additional fluid conveniently.

An enema nozzle is the part of an enema apparatus that is inserted into the rectum.
An enema nozzle is the part of an enema apparatus that is inserted into the rectum.

Enema nozzles are also made in a variety of shapes. Conical, balled, or phallic shapes are all popular designs for recreational enema nozzles. These objects are intended to provide additional stimulation during an enema, and are primarily used by people who enjoy enemas. The size, material, and color of enema nozzles are all highly variable, and many include additional features that relate to enjoyment rather than practical use.

Discussion Comments

anon333041

@alisha: Search for colon tubes.

fify

@alisha-- Have you tried a metal enema nozzle? It actually works really great!

It's a bit heavier than plastic nozzles, but the end is shaped like a plug which keeps the nozzle in. It also doesn't heat up as fast as plastics do, it heats up slowly and gets only as hot as the warmth of the enema. I use a colonic enema regularly and I have tried many different kinds of nozzles. So far, metal has proven to be the best material.

I think plastic nozzles are problematic, especially the ones that have multiple holes on the sides. There are usually tiny sharp edges where the holes are. That's what causes a lot of the irritation while they're being inserted. Most people don't even realize it. You can smooth the edges using a sander. But that's too much work if you use a single use nozzle every time.

burcinc
@alisha-- I like the flexible nozzles. They are just as strong, but fit much better. The one I use also has outlets on the side so the enema doesn't flow out from only one spot. There is more equal absorption this way.

The only downside with flexible nozzles is that they tend to be very large. Many have a bulb shape at the end and the nozzle can be as large as eight inches in circumference. I actually don't mind because I think large nozzles fit better and don't fall out during the process. But some people find it very uncomfortable, even painful.

It can be irritating if you don't use a lubricant with it. But some find that it's uncomfortable even with lubricant. So I guess it's not very suitable for those who are very sensitive and have trouble inserting the nozzle in general.

discographer

Has anyone used an enema with a flexible nozzle? What do you think, does it work well?

I've been using the standard enemas from the pharmacy that have small thin nozzles (about the width of a pencil). Those work fairly well. It doesn't cause discomfort or pain but the issue is that the enema always flows out from the sides. So it's kind of messy and I feel that a lot of enema is wasted and it doesn't work as well for that reason.

I'm curious about the flexible nozzles. If they work better, I would like to try those instead.

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    • A reusable enema bag and nozzle.
      By: Roman A. Kozlov
      A reusable enema bag and nozzle.
    • Epsom salt, which can be used to make an enema.
      By: Brooke Becker
      Epsom salt, which can be used to make an enema.
    • An enema nozzle is the part of an enema apparatus that is inserted into the rectum.
      By: stockshoppe
      An enema nozzle is the part of an enema apparatus that is inserted into the rectum.
    • Enemas may be administered in a medical setting.
      By: DimaP
      Enemas may be administered in a medical setting.
    • Many enema nozzles are simply a tapered extension of the bag or bulb.
      By: Africa Studio
      Many enema nozzles are simply a tapered extension of the bag or bulb.
    • Consult a doctor or pharmacist before trying to use an enema at home.
      By: Monkey Business
      Consult a doctor or pharmacist before trying to use an enema at home.
    • An enema may be administered to treat constipation.
      By: Halfpoint
      An enema may be administered to treat constipation.
    • Patients may be instructed to drink plenty of water prior to undergoing a colon cleanse.
      By: auremar
      Patients may be instructed to drink plenty of water prior to undergoing a colon cleanse.