FAQ Question:
How often should I irrigate?
FAQ Answer:
Daily irrigation should continue until the stoma no longer acts between irrigations. During this time, the patient will need to continue to wear an appliance. This process in familiarising the bowel with management by irrigation may take up to a fortnight.
Establishing a suitable frequency for continuing irrigation is a highly individual activity, some patients may need to continue to irrigate every 24 hours, while others may be able to reduce the frequency up to 72 hours. Many people find irrigation can be carried out every 48 hours. The time interval between irrigation is determined by the period that can confidently be passed without spontaneous stomal action.
It is generally recommended that the patient irrigates at the same time of day to establish a regular routine. Many people find it more convenient at night when things are quieter and less rushed and more flexibility in bathroom use.