The foods we eat today and the stressful lives many of us live can interfere with the way the bowel functions. This often leads to digestive problems and a feeling of ill-health and can make life really miserable. When the digestive system does not function well people often report a number of health issues. These may include:
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It is possible these symptoms may be related to a number of health conditions and it is advisable to speak to your GP for a clinical diagnosis if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Some people choose to have colonic irrigation when exploring ways to try and help with digestive problems such as constipation or when making changes to their diet, health or lifestyle. Colonic Irrigation clients also include those trying to lose weight, those who like to maintain good health and feel energised and people who are following a detox or cleansing programme. Others have colonic treatments simply because they are curious and would like to experience the effects.
To find out about client experiences of colonic irrigation in Bristol at the Colon Care Centre and the benefits felt, please read some of the testimonials. Click here for a full list of treatment packages & prices.
Colonic Irrigation (also called colonic hydrotherapy) is a naturopathic treatment that involves the safe, gentle infusion of warm water into the colon, bathing the bowel and giving it a soothing, cleansing internal massage at the same time. Colonic Irrigation works by using the body’s natural nerve and muscular activity to aid evacuation of waste from the bowel, both during and after treatment. Colonic Irrigation in Bristol at the Colon Care Centre is not only relaxing, cleansing and helpful for constipation but it may also assist with toning and exercising the bowel.
People choose to have Colonic Irrigation treatments for different reasons. Establishing your objectives beforehand will ensure a personalised treatment that best suits your own needs. To do this, a full medical case history will be taken and the treatment process explained to you. Please do not hesitate to ask any questions.
During the colonic treatment, small amounts of water are introduced into the large intestine (colon). The water starts to fill the bowel, acting as a stimulant, and the bowel responds by contracting in the same way as when you have a regular bowel movement. Waste matter and water are pushed out by the bowel muscles and carried away in a tube without any smell or mess.
Abdominal massage will be given during the treatment to assist with the removal of waste and gas. The entire flushing process lasts between 30 and 50 minutes, depending on the length of your session. (60 or 90 minute sessions are available). There is also the option for herbal or coffee enemas to be introduced into the bowel during 90 minute sessions. These are chosen according to individual needs.
You do not need to make any special changes to your diet or lifestyle to have a colonic treatment, although it can be helpful to take herbs for a few days preceding treatment if your bowels are constipated. Please contact the centre to learn more about this.
You may like to read FAQ for further information.
Watch this video if you would like to see the Colonic Irrigation process explained by an ARCH trained therapist.
The treatment package you choose will depend on the condition of your digestive health, your desired outcome and how long your digestion has been out of balance. If a condition has been building up for years, it is unlikely that it will disappear completely after 40-50 minutes of cleansing, but most people do feel improvements after the first session. If you are unsure of which treatment package or test best suits your individual needs, please book a half hour consultation to discuss this.
Consultation 30 minutes £50
Includes guidance on appropriate treatment and test options plus supplementary, dietary & lifestyle advice – ideal for those uncertain about which route to take.
Colonic Irrigation (Hydrotherapy) treatment & Herbal Enema 60 minutes £80 (£75 for follow up)
A stand-alone treatment for gentle cleansing, maintenance purposes or as part of a detox programme. This is the best ‘first-step’ option for most bowel health issues. Includes an initial consultation.
Colonic treatment with Herbal Enema & Dietary, Herbal & Supplement Advice 90 minutes £105
A personalised session aimed at supporting your individual needs with maintenance advice to help you adopt dietary and lifestyle modifications. A herbal enema will be introduced during your colonic treatment chosen from herbs that assist with: IBS, constipation, gas, stress, candida, liver cleansing.
Kick Start Course of 2 Colonic treatments £145
Affordable short course to kick start a constipated bowel and help clear excess toxins.
Detox Course of 3 Colonic treatments £205
Deep cleanse programme to support with longer term bowel health and maintenance or as part of a detox programme.
Ultimate Cleanse Course of 6 Colonic treatments £400
The Ultimate in detox packages for those committed to longer term cleansing and bowel maintenance.
Candida Cleanse £190
A course of 2 Colonic Irrigation Treatments plus a month’s supply of herbal supplements and probiotics to help control candida and restore gut microflora. Supplements are also sold separately if you wish to purchase more.
Acupuncture 1 hour £55 first session £50 follow ups
As an add-on or stand-alone, acupuncture is the treatment of choice when stress is involved in digestive issues. Acupuncture can also be used to treat other health disorders and imbalances. A course of 3-6 treatments is usually required.
Mindfulness Meditation & Stress Counselling 75 minutes £50
As an add or stand-alone session, our Mindfulness expert Mark Dunn offers private and group sessions to help with stress and negative thinking, both of which can impact on digestive health. Please visit www.positivemeditation.com for further information.
A range of Diagnostic Tests are available. Herbal and natural supplements, digestive aids & herbal teas may also be purchased through the clinic for day-to-day management of symptoms in your own home.
There are certain conditions where a colonic treatment would not be undertaken until symptoms are healed or in remission. These include conditions such as active infections or active inflammation (diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, etc), painful fissures and painful haemorrhoids. Treatment is also avoided in cases of congestive heart disease or severe high blood pressure, severe anaemia, liver cirrhosis, kidney problems, hernias and within 3 months of surgery. Treatments are also avoided during pregnancy. Please contact the centre for further information if in doubt.
It is perfectly normal to be a little apprehensive about colonic irrigation at first, and naturally you’ll have some questions about the treatment. Your ARCH trained therapist has lots of experience with clients who are new to the treatment and will be happy to talk you through any concerns you have.
Here are some of the more frequently asked questions about colonic irrigation:
Q: How do I prepare for a colonic?
A: You don’t need to do anything special before your treatment, but for your own comfort you should avoid a heavy meal or drinking a lot immediately before your appointment. You should also avoid alcohol.
Q: What if I am constipated?
A: If you are particularly constipated, you should ask for advice on what you can do beforehand to maximise the benefits of your treatment.
Q: What does a colonic feel like?
A: Most people find the procedure to be quite relaxing, with no discomfort. The colon fills and empties regularly as part of its normal function, so the treatment is nothing new. You may feel varying sensations of fullness and movement in your abdomen throughout the treatment.
Q: Isn’t it embarrassing?
A: Not at all. Your therapy will take place in a private treatment room by a trained therapist who understands the sensitivity of the procedure. It is perfectly normal to be a little embarrassed, but your therapist will completely understand and will try to put you at ease. Once the tube has been inserted, you’ll remain covered for the rest of the treatment.
Q: Is there any mess or smell?
A: None whatsoever. Modern colon hydrotherapy equipment forms a sealed system that carries away all the waste cleanly and hygienically.
Q: How safe is it?
A: Your safety is of paramount importance. Modern equipment constantly maintains the water temperature and pressure within safe limits, and regulatory bodies insist that a new, single use, disposable speculum is used for each treatment.
Q: Does it hurt?
A: Not at all. It may feel a little strange as the small tube is inserted, and you may have a natural urge to squeeze it out again, but this passes quickly. Your therapist will then closely control the filling and emptying to ensure that you remain comfortable at all times. Occasionally the colon may contract during the treatment, giving a cramping sensation but this is easily tolerated and passes as soon as the bowel empties again.
Q: How do I know if a colonic will help me?
A: Everyone is different and colonics help some people more than others. We do not make any promises or wild claims for our treatments. The best way to find out if they will benefit you is to book a treatment and see for yourself.
Q: What can I expect afterwards?
A: Generally speaking as soon as your treatment is completed you can carry on with your normal routine. You may experience an increase in bowel movements over the first few hours, to eliminate any remaining water or waste. This is perfectly normal and shouldn’t involve any undue urgency or discomfort. After that you may find that you don’t need to go to the toilet for a while, perhaps as long as a few days, as your bowels have been emptied.
Q: What kind of water is used for colonic hydrotherapy?
A: We use drinking water from the mains supply. This is then thoroughly filtered for your complete safety and warmed to body temperature or just above for your comfort.
Q: Does a colonic wash away ‘good bacteria’?
A: Most of the important bowel bacteria are present on the bowel wall and are not removed during colon hydrotherapy. Since these good bacteria breed best in a balanced environment, a colonic cleanse may actually improve their environment and increase their numbers. However, if your therapist thinks that your bowel bacteria could be out of balance, she/he may suggest a pro-biotic after your treatment.
Q: How long does a colonic take?
A: The treatment itself takes up to 45 minutes, so with changing time, you’ll need to allow at least an hour. Your first treatment will normally take longer as your therapist will need to review your medical history and assess your current bowel health before proceeding with your therapy.
Q: Will it be okay to eat after having a colonic?
A: After a colonic, you can continue with your normal daily routine, including eating and drinking. However, you should avoid any foods that you know irritate or upset your stomach and avoid alcohol. Your therapist will offer advice on healthy eating options to help you maintain the benefits you have gained from the treatment.
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: This depends on your reason for having a colonic in the first place, as well as how successful the treatment was. Your therapist will advise you on whether you need further treatments, as well as when and how often you need to return.
Q: Are there any after effects?
A: Most people feel great after a colonic, with renewed energy and vitality. However, occasionally some clients may feel a little under the weather for around 24 hours. If you have any concerns, or you feel unwell, speak to your therapist who will be able to explain your body’s reactions to you.
Q: Are there circumstances in which I shouldn’t have a colonic?
A: Yes, certain medical conditions would prevent you from having the treatment. If you are in any doubt, please feel free to call us for professional advice.
Q: Can I have a colonic during my period?
A: Yes. There is no reason why the procedure would not be successful.
Q: I’m pregnant. Can I still have a colonic?
A: No. We do not treat pregnant women during any term of their pregnancy