hello,

I have a 10 year old son, and he has been constipated for about a week now. On numerous occasions he's tried to .. go... but nothing every seems to come out (he's afraid to push). He has no history of colon or intestinal problems, so I called the doctor and she reccomended to give about half of a fleet enema to him. I've tried to assure him it won't hurt or anything, but he doesn't belive me. I've only had a enema once myself, and I have to admit it really isn't a pleasent experience. What can I do or say to quell this fear of enemas?

Thanks,
Alex Riley

Don't they have laxatives that are safe for children to take?

My 7 year old daughter is able to do most of an enema herself, so I am sure your son could also do it himself...
Has he ever had his temperature taken rectally? An enema spout will feel the same in his bottom. The fluids will tickle a bit and he will have to lie down for at least two minutes before he is allowed to go use the bathroom.
He will feel so much better when all the poop is out, maybe that will reassure him? Is he embaresed, just give him privacy.
I always tell my daughter it isn't fun, but it will make her feel better and it will not hurt (and it won't, that is no lie!)
You could also forgo the enema and buy a suppository, it will do the same (but maybe not as effectivaly...

L.

Hey, thanks for the advice. I talked to my son a little bit, and told him he could do it and it may be more comfortable for him. While I watched to make sure he didn't hurt himself, he managed to get it in and then go to the restroom. He seems much happier now :)