Frequently asked Questions
What is Colon Hydrotherapy?
Colon hydrotherapy, also known as Colonics or Colon Irrigation, is the gentle infusion of warm water into the colon to cleanse it of accumulated fecal material, gas, mucus and other toxins. This allows vital nutrients to be absorbed more easily and leaves you feeling rejuvenated and healthier. No chemicals or drugs are involved and the entire therapy is both relaxing and effective. Spring House Health & Wellness uses an FDA registered closed system with disposable speculum kit. Our Colon Hydrotherapist is I-ACT (International Association forColon Hydrotherapy) certified.
What is the Colon?
The colon, also called the large intestine, is a large, hollow, muscular tube-like organ approximately 5 – 6 feet long and 2 ½ inches in diameter. It forms the end portion of the digestive tract and moves waste by involuntary wave-like contractions called peristalsis. The colon’s primary functions are to absorb water and electrolytes, to synthesize valuable nutrients (such as vitamins B and K) and to prepare and store fecal waste prior to elimination. Beneficial flora in the colon can also help protect the body from infection and disease. It is said that 60-70% of the immune tissue of the body resides in the colon and intestines.
What is the difference between colon hydrotherapy, enemas and laxatives?
Colon hydrotherapy is designed to cleanse, hydrate, and retone the entire length of the large intestine (approx 5 to 6 feet) whereas an enema only reaches the lower part of the colon or about 1 foot. Laxatives generally contain drugs and chemicals that irritate the colon walls and are known for dehydrating the bowel instead of hydrating the system as with colon hydrotherapy.
Is it ok to have a colonic if I have my period?
Yes. During your period your body is already in a mode of cleansing and the warm water may smooth cramps relatred to your period.
What happens during the session?
The procedure starts with the client lying on a comfortable therapy table. The therapist gently inserts a small disposable speculum into the rectum. We only use completely sterile speculum kits during the procedure.
How far does the speculum go?
The speculum is will go 2 – 3 inches into the rectum and is the size of a normal bowel movement.
Is a colonic painful?
A colonic should not be painful. In most cases, the speculum can be inserted and removed with very little discomfort. If the client has a history of painful bowel movements, dehydration, or excessive gas, the therapist will work with the client to minimize the discomfort.
Will a treatment completely empty the colon?
No. A mild cleanse will take 2-3 sessions, over the course of one week, depending on the client. Since we are constantly eating and drinking, the colon never becomes completely empty. The goal of colonics is to remove the fecal plaque and other toxins which have accumulated over time, not to try and completely empty the colon of normal, everyday waste.
How long is a session?
Please allow 1.5 - 2 hours for your initial visit so the colon hydrotherapist has a chance to review your history, address questions, and perform the colonic session. Follow-up visits take approximately one hour.
How many sessions are needed?
This varies from person to person. For many people, a mild cleanse may be sufficient, while others may take more sessions to remove years of built-up toxins. The therapist will have the opportunity to assess your progress and offer suggestions for the future that accommodate your needs and objectives.
Is it Safe?
Yes. In fact, with the modern advancements of today's colon hydrotherapy devices and standardization of training and procedures, colon hydrotherapy is often safer than administering an enema. And, with the dangers of laxative overuse, colonics have a definite advantage and greater long-term benefits.
How should I prepare for the colonic?
We recommend eating lightly on the day of your session and staying away from carbs, fats, and dairy products. Plenty of water should be taken in the days prior to your colonic to help your body rehydrate. It is recommended to stop drinking 2-3 hours before the colonic, to prevent the need to urinate during the session.
Can I go to work directly after a colon hydrotherapy session?
Absolutely. You can work just as you would after a normal bowel movement.
Could there be cross-contamination from other clients?
All materials, including tubing, speculums and drapes are for one time use and are disposed after each client. In addition, the FDA Class II cleared medical device (the hydrotherapy device) has a one way check valve to assure fresh, clean, purified water instillation and an internal self-cleaning system that uses the same hospital grade disinfectant that is utilized in some operating rooms.