enema
Meaning of enema: An enema introduces liquid into the rectum and lower bowel, used to relieve constipation, empty the bowel before a procedure, or deliver medication.
Definition of enema
An enema is a procedure in which liquid is introduced through the anus into the rectum and lower portion of the large intestine, generally using a specialized container or device to control the amount and rate of fluid delivered. The liquid used can vary depending on the enema's purpose.
An enema is most commonly used to relieve constipation or to empty the bowel before a procedure such as a colonoscopy or certain types of surgery, since stimulating the bowel with fluid encourages a bowel movement within a short period after administration. An enema can also be used to deliver certain medications directly to the rectum and lower colon, allowing local treatment of that area or absorption into the bloodstream through the rectal lining.
Because an enema acts directly on the lower portion of the large intestine, its effects are generally limited to that region, and it is not an effective way to clear stool or gas from higher portions of the digestive tract.
Used in a sentence
An enema was administered to prepare the bowel before the scheduled colonoscopy.
Good to know
An enema acts only on the rectum and lower colon, so it does not clear stool retained higher in the large intestine, a limitation relevant when constipation involves the upper colon.
Word origin
Where “enema” comes from
Formed from Greek enienai, meaning to send in or inject, from en-, meaning in, and hienai, meaning to send.