Scientific research does not support the use of enema during labor anymore because it believes that the technique is ineffective in preventing maternal and neonatal risks of infections (1). That said, doctors may still recommend enemas to women based on their conditions. For example, it may shorten labor pain, relieve bowel issues, or benefit women with constipation before labor. However, since each pregnancy is different, you should discuss your issues with your doctor and decide whether you need an enema or not. Read this post to understand why enema is used during labor and why it is not recommended for all women.
Why Is Enema Not Recommended Before Labor?
Administering enema during labor is not recommended due to the following reasons (2) (3).
Why Is Enema Still Given for Some Women During Labor?
Doctors may recommend enema for those who have constipation before labor. Passing stool is a normal occurrence during labor or delivery. Around 25% of women may experience what is called fecal incontinence or accidental bowel movement when they are in labor (4). To avoid this and save themselves from the embarrassment, some women prefer to get enema during labor. Here are a few reasons why enema could be given during labor. However, another study found no difference in the fecal contamination rate between the enema and the non-enema groups (5). The risk of fetal contamination doesn’t hold for all pregnant women, which is why enema is not necessary for everyone. That said, enema does not help every case of constipation. For instance, women who have an irritable bowel disease or intestinal obstruction are not recommended an enema (5) (6).
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title: “Should You Have Enema During Labor " ShowToc: true date: “2022-11-22” author: “Jody Mckay”
Scientific research does not support the use of enema during labor anymore because it believes that the technique is ineffective in preventing maternal and neonatal risks of infections (1). That said, doctors may still recommend enemas to women based on their conditions. For example, it may shorten labor pain, relieve bowel issues, or benefit women with constipation before labor. However, since each pregnancy is different, you should discuss your issues with your doctor and decide whether you need an enema or not. Read this post to understand why enema is used during labor and why it is not recommended for all women.
Why Is Enema Not Recommended Before Labor?
Administering enema during labor is not recommended due to the following reasons (2) (3).
Why Is Enema Still Given for Some Women During Labor?
Doctors may recommend enema for those who have constipation before labor. Passing stool is a normal occurrence during labor or delivery. Around 25% of women may experience what is called fecal incontinence or accidental bowel movement when they are in labor (4). To avoid this and save themselves from the embarrassment, some women prefer to get enema during labor. Here are a few reasons why enema could be given during labor. However, another study found no difference in the fecal contamination rate between the enema and the non-enema groups (5). The risk of fetal contamination doesn’t hold for all pregnant women, which is why enema is not necessary for everyone. That said, enema does not help every case of constipation. For instance, women who have an irritable bowel disease or intestinal obstruction are not recommended an enema (5) (6).
