Like learning anything new, establishing a routine for your irrigations can take a while to master fully. However, finding a routine that fits into your daily life is an important part of coming to terms with your bowel problem and regaining control of when you empty your bowel.
Establishing an ongoing TAI routine
Find a regular routine that works best for you
Find the best time to irrigate – then stick to it. Initially, irrigation should be performed every day. Once a routine is established (this may take several weeks), the procedure can be performed every other day. Your healthcare professional will advise you on how often you should irrigate.
Once you’re comfortable with your procedure, you should start aiming to perform your irrigations around the same time each day. Some users find it helpful to perform their first irrigations in the evenings or at the weekend so they can take their time. If you do vary your irrigation times, it may take longer before noticing a lasting difference.
Tip: Irrigate after eating. Starting your irrigation 20 to 30 minutes after eating can help stimulate your bowels’ natural activity, making it easier to empty them. Always remember to keep hydrated – aim to drink at least 6-8 glasses (equivalent to 1.5-2 litres) of liquid per day.
Keeping a record of your bowel movements in a “bowel diary” can be beneficial. Noting things down, such as when you irrigate, how much water you use, and the results achieved can help you adjust the program if necessary. This way you can track your progress with Peristeen and help establish a personalised routine.