Preparing for your irrigation with Peristeen Plus.
When starting out on their Peristeen Plus journey, some users may struggle with the newness of a new bowel management routine and learning not only how the system works, but also how to make it work best for them. Establishing and following a consistent routine will help achieve a better evacuation.
Remember that you should always follow the Instructions for Use (IFU) provided with the product. Reference this guide to help you build a better bowel management routine.
Preparation is key to achieving your desired outcome
Sarah, US – born with spina bifida, “I remember when I first got Peristeen I thought straight away I needed to get organized. One of the first things I did was get a cart – I call it my "poop train" – so I can just wheel it into the bathroom and I have everything I need right there.”*
Strive for privacy
Make sure that you can get access to a private bathroom and allow for plenty of time to empty your bowels without interruptions. If used properly, you should expect the irrigation to take approximately 30-45 minutes to complete.
Take your time preparing
When it comes to Peristeen® Plus, the better prepared you are, the better your irrigations are likely to be. Take your time to prepare and set up the products as well as any accessories you might need in your bathroom. Make sure you have everything on hand before you begin.
Accessories can be helpful
Keep a plastic bag nearby. It can be useful for disposing used catheters, gloves and wipes.
Minimize clean-up
Bowel irrigation can be messy for some, especially as you start to retrain your bowels. The more prepared you are, the less hassle you may have. Consider having some paper towels or extra towels on hand to help with clean-up.
During: tips during your next irrigation with Peristeen Plus
Everyone is different. Succeeding with Peristeen Plus is about developing a system that works for you.
Keep your legs elevated
After removing the rectal catheter, consider bending your knees up and placing your feet on a footstool. The squat position can help your bowels evacuate by decreasing the pressure in your pelvic region. Make sure you're sitting comfortably. Some users place a cushion behind their backs for support. For best results, sitting upright or slightly reclined is recommended.
Extra help to get things moving
Some people find that it helps to gently twist their upper body several times at the end of the irrigation. Gently massaging your stomach clockwise or bending over and touching your toes may also help.
Temperature matters
Always use clean tap water with a temperature of 34°C-40°C, with body temperature being optimal. Check that the water temperature indicator on the water bag is green before proceeding with irrigation. When in doubt, run the water over your wrist to ensure it feels lukewarm. Water that is too hot may harm the delicate lining of the bowel; water that is too cold may cause cramping.
Keep your supplies nearby
Have your Peristeen Plus system and rectal catheters ready. Optimize the placement of the kit so it fits your bathroom layout. Keep any other supplies nearby so that they are within reach when you are sitting on the toilet.
When your irrigation is complete
Tara, 51, UK – spina bifida, “After irrigation, I use a mirror to check the color of the water dripping from rectum. If it’s clear, I know I’m empty and I’ve had a successful irrigation. If not, there might be more, so I wait a while, stretch my arms and massage my stomach.”*
Take care of your Peristeen Plus system
After your bowel irrigation procedure, it is important that you clean, rinse and dry your Peristeen Plus system.
Read more about how to take good care of your system here.
Store your system in a convenient place
Store your Peristeen Plus system at room temperature and out of direct sunlight, and ensure the tubes are not kinked. Remember to keep the gray lid to use on the next bag until it's time to replace the entire system (every 90 uses). Keep any additional supplies needed for the procedure and clean-up nearby as well, so it is easier for you to start your irrigation next time.
Take a shower after
Taking a shower after using Peristeen Plus may help ease any concerns about personal hygiene.
*Sarah and Tara received compensation from Coloplast to provide this information. Each person’s situation is unique, so your experience may not be the same. Talk to your healthcare professional about which product might be right for you.
Information from Coloplast Care is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice and should not be interpreted to contain treatment recommendations. You should rely on the healthcare professional who knows your individual history for personal medical advice and diagnosis.
