​​​​​​​​What is a contrast enema?

A contrast enema is an imaging test that takes x-ray pictures of the large bowel (colon).

How does my child get ready for the test?

Once your child's appointment is confirmed, you will get instructions for how to prepare them for the test. If you have any questions about the preparation, you can contact the Diagnostic Imaging department.

Where is the test done?

The test happens in a room with an x-ray camera placed over a bed. Ask a member of the healthcare team if one parent or caregiver can stay in the room with your child, or if you need to wait close by. Anyone who is pregnant cannot be in the room.

What happens during the test?

A doctor and a technologist will do the test. 

Your child will change into a hospital gown.

There will be a plastic bag of liquid (called barium or contrast) hanging on a pole. A plastic tube will be connected to the bag. The liquid shows up on the x-rays, so the doctor can see the inside of your child’s colon.

Your child will start the test by lying on their left side on the bed. They will have their knees pulled up close to their stomach. The tip of the plastic tube will be gently inserted into your child’s rectum (bum hole). Tape is used to help hold the tube in place.

Your child may feel a little uncomfortable. It can help your child to do breathing exercises or other distraction techniques.

X-ray pictures are taken while the liquid runs slowly from the bag into their colon. It’s important for them to lie as still as possible while the pictures are being taken.

The doctor may ask your child to move into different positions. This lets them see the colon from different angles.

After a few minutes, your child may begin to feel very full. They may feel like they need to use the toilet. Once all the pictures have been taken, your child can use the toilet.

What happens after the test?

Your child can go home after the test and do their normal activities. They may need to poop (have a bowel movement) more often than usual for a day or 2 after. Their poop may also look white or greyish for a few days.

Try to have your child drink extra fluids for the first few days after the test. This helps to flush the liquid used during the test from their body. This liquid may cause your child to be constipated (have hard poop that is difficult to pass) or have loose, watery poop for a short time.

The test results will be sent to the doctor who ordered the test in about 1 week.

For health advice anytime, day, or night, call Health Link at 811 to speak to a nurse.