To Enema or Not to Enema, that is the question

[joase]

Sorry for the gross topic. If you don't want to read about poop, please do not read on.
I am interested on imput on this idea. In my last labor, I never had my diarhea or soft stools before labor. I ended up having a 32 hour labor. It took forever to dialate. Finally around 20+ hours, I requested an enema, because of my overwhelming need to poop. It was amazing, and I thougth it felt great and I started dialating!
Now I am a week past due. I am feeling backed up, even though I am probably not the definition of backed up. I am regular, I just constantly feeling like I want to let it all out and it is not happening. I am wondering if this part of why I am so late. I have read that enemas can be used to start labor, and I can not find any risks like with castor oil.
Does any know of risks or have imput, sorry again for the gross discussion.

[CrazyCatLady]

Enema's can trigger labor (though they never worked for me : ). Since you are past due, I can't think of any reason why an enema might be harmful (other than the usual "risks" associated with using one). I say go for it if you feel it would help you feel better. It would be an even bigger bonus if it helped trigger labor. Good luck

[JenMidwife]

Something a bit more gentle than an enema is a suppository... both can be bought @ a pharmacy. Good luck!

[Portlandmama78]

Hey hun it's Trish from API.. I say go for it.. You just may end up with some minor cramping or you could deliver before me.. I do think tho that the supp. that was mentioned would be more "mild" and easier to do.. But that's all up to you.. Other than that how are you feeling? I'm 1 day away from due date and miserable.. So I know you can't be feeling 100% right now either.

[secretresistance]

My only input is to tell you that I've felt pretty much the same way re: "backed up," but from the frequency of my bathroom trips, I know it just can't be! I think my issues are from the baby finally dropping. There's more pressure, and for me it feels like I've gotta go go go even when I don't.

[ambotchka]

Last night, I swear the baby thought it'd be great fun to push his/her head into my tailbone area, trying to make me "go." It was uncomfortable, but a little funny -- not something I'll be feeling in a few weeks.

[mimi!]

You could try some organic castor oil. It'll clean you out and start labour. Its a time honoured midwife classic!

[mimi!]

oops! double post