Enemas are often used during childbirth. At this time, let’s find out what the enema is for and what is absolutely necessary.
During pregnancy, expectant mothers have a lot of questions and concerns. This includes enemas performed during the delivery process.
As the moment of childbirth approaches, the pregnant woman’s thoughts are filled with childbirth . Anxiety can increase with concerns about the risks to the pregnant woman herself and the health of the fetus, and false beliefs that multiply those concerns.
One of the fears that expectant mothers have about childbirth is the enema. An enema is a laxative placed in the anus to empty the large intestine. The enema lasts about 20 minutes. If so, should I have an enema during delivery?
Worries of Expectant Mothers over Enemas during Childbirth
It is common for expectant mothers to have many concerns and concerns about the birth process. And one of those worries is that you will have a bowel movement unintentionally during childbirth.
It is true that having a bowel movement during childbirth can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Imagine having a bowel movement in the presence of medical staff (mostly strangers) can be a very realistic stressor for pregnant women.
In general, we go into childbirth fully prepared, but it is natural to want to imagine and prepare for all possible scenarios. Therefore, there are many pregnant women who think that having an enema during childbirth is a good way.
Early Stage of Childbirth
When childbirth is imminent, the body can naturally develop a urge to defecate.
If this happens in the early stages of labor, it is not a problem at all. If you want to go to the bathroom because of the first labor, you can go to the bathroom naturally.
Also, if a pregnant woman has regular bowel movements, an enema is unnecessary.
When the moment of childbirth is imminent, it is normal for medical staff to give an enema as early as possible. The main purpose is to prevent infection.
It has been believed that if a woman defecates during childbirth, the baby will become contaminated with feces, which poses a risk of infection for both the baby and the mother. There is an opinion that using an enema during childbirth stimulates childbirth and helps shorten the delivery time.
In Case of Enema during Delivery
If a pregnant woman is constipated or has a large amount of accumulated stool, childbirth may be difficult.
You can check this status using the equipment. Doctors or midwives recommend using the device if you feel feces accumulated on the back of the uterine wall.
Applying an enema during childbirth is recommended if expectant mothers are afraid of defecation during childbirth. Fear of having a bowel movement can prevent you from experiencing the moment of childbirth calmly and cause stress.
It should be remembered that childbirth is a natural process that a woman’s body experiences. There may be some unpleasant moments during childbirth, but that also means it’s perfectly normal.
Perineal Hair Removal
It is also very common to shave around the vagina along with enemas during childbirth. The main reason is that it is believed that removing the hair can reduce the risk of infection during an episiotomy.
It is a surgical method to expand the acidity to prevent skin tearing. It is also intended to help make the birthing process easier for both the baby and the mother.
Enema and hair removal are both related to episiotomy. Research over the past decade has questioned this practice and has resulted in fewer practices.
The focus of the controversy was that such hair removal did not greatly benefit the pregnant woman and the fetus. It does not prevent disease, and there is no evidence that it shortens recovery time or reduces risk.
Therefore, expectant mothers can do hair removal at home if necessary. Pregnant women should have strong faith in the medical staff involved in childbirth. This is because she can proceed to childbirth in a safer and more comfortable state.
