Question 1

Can I irrigate more than once daily?

Accepted Answer

It is generally recommended to irrigate daily for at least the first three months to establish an effective routine, your healthcare professional will then guide you on how often to irrigate. If you feel you need to irrigate more often than daily it is best to contact your healthcare professional for advice and guidance on how to proceed.

Question 2

How will myqufora contact me to offer support?

Accepted Answer

After your Healthcare Professional has referred and set you up for our Qufora Direct Home Delivery Service, you will receive a support call approximately 14 days afterwards from the support team at myqufora. Going forward you can then discuss how often you would like support calls from them. We can call or email you.
You can also register yourself for myqufora support even if you get your products from another delivery service or direct from a pharmacy. If you then decide to unsubscribe please Contact Us.

Question 3

Should I eat before or after my rectal irrigation?

Accepted Answer

Many people find irrigating after their breakfast is preferable. This takes advantage of the gastro-colic response we get when we eat, which can help with a bowel movement. However, if this is not possible then irrigate at a time that fits in with your routine. It is generally a good idea to stick to approximately the same time each day, so your bowel gets into a routine.

Question 4

Why is rectal irrigation better than suppositories or manual evacuation?

Accepted Answer

It’s all about choice and many people find rectal irrigation a quicker and more effective method of bowel management.

Question 5

How do I get assessed to see if rectal irrigation is suitable for me and is there a clinic I can go to?

Accepted Answer

Initially you should speak to your GP, they can advise you and refer you to a hospital clinic or community clinic that specialises in bowel issues. If you are unsure, please Contact Us at myqufora and we can advise.

Question 6

My doctor or GP has not heard of Rectal Irrigation.

Accepted Answer

Rectal irrigation (sometimes called anal irrigation or trans-anal irrigation) has been practiced for many hundreds of years. Over recent years, it has been more widely used as a bowel management solution. If your GP would like any information about irrigation or our Qufora products, just Contact Us at myqufora and we would be happy to send information over. You can speak to your GP and ask to be referred to a specialist clinic for assessment.

Question 7

How long does it take to carry out rectal irrigation?

Accepted Answer

Rectal irrigation timings can vary depending on your symptoms and the type of product you use. It can take slightly longer when you first start rectal irrigation until you get used to using the system and establish a bowel routine.
The Qufora® IrriSedo Mini system uses a small volume of water and therefore the time spent may be shorter. The Qufora® IrriSedo Cone, Balloon, Klick and Bed systems all use higher volumes of water, which can increase the time up to 30 minutes and occasionally longer dependent on your symptoms. Most of this time is waiting for the bowel to empty not actually doing the procedure.
Your healthcare professional will discuss this with you on your initial assessment.

Question 8

I am embarrassed to get help!

Accepted Answer

Do not be embarrassed – everyone needs to poo – FACT! Bowel issues can occur in all ages and sexes and this is something that is seen by healthcare professionals and GPs frequently. Contact your GP who can assess your symptoms and if necessary, they will refer you for further support from a continence team or hospital. The myqufora support team can provide support and guidance on the process.

Question 9

I have weak anal sphincter muscles; will I still be continent after using rectal irrigation?

Accepted Answer

To be continent is not just reliant on the anal sphincter muscles. It is a combination of the anal sphincter, stool consistency, rectal sensation, and muscle support of the rectum. For some people they may have a weak anal sphincter but remain continent. Therefore, it is normally with a combination of factors that a person becomes incontinent.
Rectal irrigation allows the rectum and lower part of the bowel to be emptied so that the individual can remain continent. Your healthcare professional will recommend the appropriate irrigation product to suit your bowel management needs, as there are various products in the Qufora® IrriSedo range.
You should also contact them if you have been using your irrigation system as instructed but remain symptomatic as you may need to be re-assessed.

Question 10

Why it is recommended I use the bowel progress diary?

Accepted Answer

The bowel progress diary is an important way of recording how your symptoms affect you and over time allows you to see the improvements of using Qufora® IrriSedo rectal irrigation. It is also helpful to show your healthcare professional when you visit for follow up appointments to review your progress.

Question 11

Will I have to stay on Qufora® IrriSedo for the rest of my life?

Accepted Answer

This will depend on your reason for using irrigation. Many people find the advantages of irrigation mean they do not want to stop using it regularly. You can contact myqufora using the details on the Contact Us page and we can offer advice and support. We can advise whether to return to your healthcare professional for review or we can contact them on your behalf.

Question 12

Should I sit in any specific position whilst on the toilet?

Accepted Answer

When sitting on the toilet feet should be placed flat on the floor or by placing feet on a foot stool. By leaning forward slightly can help with the natural anatomical pathway for the bowel to empty.

Question 13

What if I leak water after I irrigate?

Accepted Answer

It is usual for the bowel to take some time to empty all the irrigation water out with any stool. As you get more experienced you will know how long you need to wait before leaving the toilet. If you are not sure you can get advice from your healthcare professional.

Question 14

Can I add anything to the water for irrigation?

Accepted Answer

Rectal irrigation works well with simple lukewarm tap water, similar to the temperature of a baby bath (36-38 degrees).  You should not add anything to the warm water unless specifically advised by your healthcare professional.

Question 15

Can I use extra lubrication with the Qufora® IrriSedo cone and catheter?

Accepted Answer

The Qufora® IrriSedo cone and catheter have a hydrophilic coating, which when dipped in water produces lubrication to allow easy and comfortable insertion into the anus/rectum. If you feel you still need more lubrication, please contact myqufora using the details on the Contact Us page or contact your healthcare professional for further advice.

Question 16

How much water should I use?

Accepted Answer

It is important to only use the amount of water advised by your healthcare professional. Prior to commencing treatment, they will assess your condition and discuss the quantity of water that you should use to irrigate. This can vary as everyone and every condition is different. If you are unsure, please contact your healthcare professional. If you are having difficulty contacting them, please do not hesitate to contact the myqufora support team who can assist you in trying to contact your healthcare professional. Details can be found on the Contact Us page.

Question 17

Can I increase or decrease the water volume anytime I want?

Accepted Answer

It is important to use the water volume advised by your healthcare professional. Only change it after discussion with them.
Myqufora can listen to your questions about this and inform your healthcare professional if you need further advice about adjusting your regime. You can contact myqufora using the details on the Contact Us page.

Question 18

Can I change the product I am using?

Accepted Answer

There are many different irrigation products available for use – your healthcare professional may have discussed some of these with you before agreeing on a product for you to use. If you are experiencing difficulties using your Qufora® IrriSedo system, you can contact the myqufora support team who can assist – they can even help you contact your healthcare professional. Unfortunately, they cannot change your prescription for your product, this needs to be done by your healthcare professional who will need to assess your suitability for this product.

Question 19

How often should I irrigate?

Accepted Answer

Your healthcare professional will advise you on this but generally daily use of irrigation for the first 3 months is recommended to allow you time to get used to the procedure and get into a routine that suits you.
However, at times your healthcare professional may need to adjust this to suit your condition so their advice should always be followed.

Question 20

Why should I inflate the Balloon on the catheter on the Qufora® IrriSedo Balloon and Klick system?

Accepted Answer

When you insert the catheter into the rectum the balloon is inflated with water by using the hand pump. Your healthcare professional will guide you on how many pumps to inflate the balloon. When inflated the balloon will create a seal to stop the irrigation water from leaking out of your rectum. This means once the balloon is inflated you do not have to hold the catheter in place. Once the recommended amount of water is instilled, the balloon can be deflated, and the catheter gently removed.

Question 21

If I am using the Qufora® IrriSedo Cone, Balloon or Klick system, how do I use gravity to instil the water instead of the pump?

Accepted Answer

Just hang your water bag at around shoulder height when you are sitting on the toilet (no higher than 50cm above the level of the toilet seat). You can use the supplied suction hook to hang the bag. This will allow water to flow without needing to use the pump, however the pump can still be used in addition if required. If you do not have a hook please contact the myqufora support team using the details on the Contact Us page.

Question 22

How do I dispose of my cones and catheters after irrigation?

Accepted Answer

After use, the cone or catheter should be discarded. They are SINGLE use only and must not be used again. The catheter or cone can be discarded in the pouch provided and disposed in your household waste. Please note that these products cannot be recycled at present.

Question 23

I cannot remember how to put the Qufora® IrriSedo system together?

Accepted Answer

Qufora® IrriSedo is designed to be easy to use but when you first start to use irrigation, don’t worry if you are unsure. There are videos for each product on our website by clicking on the products tab. We can also guide you via a telephone call or live chat.
If you need further assistance, please contact myqufora using the details on the Contact Us page and we can provide advice on putting the system together and techniques. Be re-assured that using rectal irrigation products takes practice until you find your own routine and we are here to support you at myqufora.

Question 24

Can my family and friends try my products?

Accepted Answer

As with all prescription items, these are specifically for your own use and should not be shared with anyone. For safety, prior to commencing irrigation, patients need to be assessed to ensure that they are suitable for this treatment.  
If a family member or friend is having bowel difficulties, encourage them to visit their GP who in turn can refer them to a continence service or hospital if required to allow their issue to be addressed.

Question 25

Can I get a sample of Qufora® IrriSedo products?

Accepted Answer

Qufora® IrriSedo products are available by prescription only as patients require to be assessed for suitability prior to using our products. Your healthcare professional may give you a teaching pack to start you off on irrigation, but these products are only available via your healthcare professional.

Question 26

How many times can I use the extension tube with my Qufora® IrriSedo Mini system?

Accepted Answer

This tube is single use only and should be disposed of with the single use cone after each irrigation.

Question 27

How often do I change the water bag on my Qufora® IrriSedo Cone/Balloon/Klick system?

Accepted Answer

The water bag should be changed every 30 days for Qufora IrriSedo Cone system (if on Balloon or Klick this should be 15 days) to prevent any mould or moisture occurring inside of the bag. To prevent this from happening the bag should be hung up out of direct sunlight with the cap left off and ensure the purple valve is left open after irrigation process to allow air to flow through the system.

Question 28

How often do I replace parts on my Qufora® IrriSedo system?

Accepted Answer

Below is a list of when each part of your system should be replaced, just look for the system you are currently using:

Mini
Cone – single use only
Mini pump – every 30 days
Extension tube – single use only

Cone
Cone – single use only
Water bag – every 30 days

Klick
Water bag – every 15 uses
Catheters – single use only
Control unit – every 3 months (if irrigating daily) or every 6 months (if irrigating on alternate days)

Balloon
Water bag – every 15 days
Catheters – single use only
Control unit – every 3 months (if irrigating daily) or every 6 months (if irrigating on alternate days)

Bed
Water bag – every 15 days
Collection bag – single use
Catheter – single use only

Question 29

Where should I keep my Qufora® IrriSedo Products?

Accepted Answer

You can keep your products in the packaging it arrived in or toiletry bag, stored away from heat and direct sunlight.
For specific items after irrigation use:

Water bags: Rinse and dry the water bag and store away from heat and direct sunlight, ensure the cap is left off and the valve is left open.
Pump/Control Unit:  Clean the exterior of the pump or control unit with lukewarm water and soap. Rinse and dry, store away from heat and direct sunlight. Leave the control unit on number 1 to allow air to flow through.
Tubing: Ensure all water is drained from tubing which if required can be achieved by hanging the bag and tubing on the hook supplied.

Question 30

Can I buy the Qufora® IrriSedo products?

Accepted Answer

Before starting irrigation, you need to be assessed and trained by a healthcare professional therefore our products are prescription only items. If you are considering using irrigation you can speak to your GP and ask to be referred to the appropriate service who can assess and advise you. If you are unsure, please Contact Us at myqufora and we can advise.
If you live outside the UK – please click on the following link for a list of our distributors
https://mbh-international.com/contact/distributors/

Question 31

How can I get Qufora® IrriSedo products?

Accepted Answer

You need to be assessed and trained by a qualified healthcare professional before you use Qufora® IrriSedo products. They are available on prescription via your GP. We would advise that you visit your GP, they can advise you and refer you to a hospital clinic or community clinic that specialises in bowel issues.
To obtain supplies, you can get your products delivered free to your home or go to your pharmacy. Our home delivery service Qufora® Direct can deliver you discreetly packed supplies to an address of your choosing.  They can also set you up with monthly reminders to help ensure that you always have supplies. For more information visit Qufora® Direct.

Question 32

How do I order more supplies?

Accepted Answer

You can either get your products delivered free to your home or go to the Pharmacy with your prescription and they will order them. Patients in the UK can also use a home delivery service. Our home delivery service, Qufora® Direct can deliver you discreetly packed supplies to an address of your choosing. They can also set you up with monthly reminders to help ensure you always have supplies.

Question 33

How much should I order each month?

Accepted Answer

Below is the suggested monthly order for Qufora® IrriSedo. Just look for the product you are using:

When Irrigating Daily
When Irrigating every other day

Mini
1 x 53601-030 (Mini 30 irrigations)
2 x 52715-015 (15 extension tubes)

1 x 53601-015 (Mini 15 irrigations)
1 x 52715-015 (15 extension tubes)

Cone
1 x QTM Cone System (15 irrigations)
1 x 52601-015 (Accessory set)

1 x QTM Cone System (15 irrigations)

Klick
2 x QKCATH Catheter sets
1 x Control Unit – every 3 months

1 x QKCATH Catheter sets
1 x Control Unit – every 6 months

Bed
2 x 15 Irrigation set per month

1 x 15 irrigation set per month

If you are unsure about anything to do with your order, please contact us at myqufora or Qufora® Direct.

Question 34

What if I run out of my Qufora® IrriSedo products?

Accepted Answer

It is important to make sure you get your supplies regularly and on time, either from your home delivery service or pharmacy. You can set up a monthly reminder from Qufora® Direct where they can either text, call or email you to remind you to order supplies.
If you think you might run out of your supplies, contact your delivery service or pharmacy for more advice. You can also contact myqufora using details on the Contact Us page.

Question 35

I am not new to rectal irrigation but would like support as I am having some challenges.  How can myqufora help me?

Accepted Answer

At myqufora we are here to help and support people who are using Qufora® IrriSedo rectal irrigation products. We are there to support those new to irrigation but also those who are more established but have questions or concerns. You can contact myqufora using the details on the Contact Us page. If you are having any symptoms such as pain or bleeding, myqufora recommend seeking advice directly from your healthcare professional or GP.

Question 36

I stopped irrigating; can I start again?

Accepted Answer

This may depend on why you stopped irrigating. If you have had surgery recently, then this will depend on the type of surgery you have had and should be discussed with your healthcare professional. If it has been for any other reason, then it may depend on the length of time you have stopped. You may need to see your GP or healthcare professional in this regard to recommencing this regime and prescription, including the particular type of system suitable for you. You may need to be re-assessed as your symptoms and general health status may have changed. For further advice, contact myqufora using the Contact Us page.

Question 37

Can I use abdominal massage to help my bowels move?

Accepted Answer

Your healthcare professional will advise you on this but some people find that if the irrigation water does not start a bowel movement straight away then massaging your bowel gently in circular movements, clockwise around the abdomen can help to start the bowel moving. You can also try leaning forward and coughing once or twice.

Question 38

How soon will Qufora® IrriSedo improve my symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Improvement in symptoms can vary for individuals as everyone is different. Some people notice an improvement straight away while others may need to establish the best routine for them over the first 3 months. It is recommended to irrigate daily for the first 3 months to establish an effective routine. Your healthcare professional will assess you and advise on this during your training. With regular rectal irrigation you can effectively clear the bowel, alleviating symptoms of constipation and faecal incontinence. Over time your bowel pattern may change slightly, and your irrigation routine may need to be reviewed by your healthcare professional. You can contact myqufora for advice and support using the details on the Contact Us page. We can advise whether you should return to your healthcare professional for review and further management or we can contact them for you.

Question 39

Will rectal irrigation make my bowel lazy?

Accepted Answer

The purpose of using irrigation is to establish regularity of the bowel and help manage your bowel. There is no clinical evidence regarding reduced bowel function after using irrigation.

Question 40

Will I need to keep rushing to the toilet after I irrigate?

Accepted Answer

After using irrigation for a while, you will understand how long your bowel continues to empty after the irrigation water is released. If you leave the toilet too soon you may have to return to continue to empty your bowel. So, with experience you will learn how long you need to wait. Your healthcare professional should discuss this with you on your initial assessment and training.

Question 41

How long does it take for the bowel to empty?

Accepted Answer

Bowel emptying times can vary depending on your reasons for using irrigation and the type of irrigation product used. It can take slightly longer when you first start irrigation until you get used to using the system and establish a bowel routine. 
Qufora® IrriSedo Mini system uses a small volume of water and can have more rapid results. The Qufora® IrriSedo Cone, Balloon, Klick, and Bed systems use larger volumes of water and can increase the time up to 30 minutes and occasionally longer dependent on your symptoms. Most of this time is waiting for the bowel to empty not actually doing the procedure.  Once you have established a routine the time may decrease. Your healthcare professional should discuss this with you on your initial assessment.

Question 42

Will rectal irrigation reduce salts in my body?

Accepted Answer

In general, rectal irrigation should not cause this issue. There is no evidence to suggest this over long-term use of irrigation. It is always wise to ensure enough fluids are also drunk during the day. If you have any concerns, please discuss this with your healthcare professional.

Question 43

Does rectal irrigation get rid of the good bacteria in my colon?

Accepted Answer

There is no clinical evidence to suggest that the good bacteria in the colon is adversely affected by using rectal irrigation.

Question 44

Can I just use rectal irrigation occasionally or when I feel constipated?

Accepted Answer

It is not recommended to use rectal irrigation occasionally unless your healthcare professional advises this. Regular use will prevent constipation and/or faecal incontinence. It is recommended to irrigate daily for at least the first 3 months to establish an effective routine. Many people continue daily use. With regular rectal irrigation as prescribed, this can effectively manage the bowel, alleviating symptoms of constipation and/or faecal incontinence. Your healthcare professional can advise you further.

Question 45

How soon after surgery can I re-start using my Qufora® IrriSedo rectal irrigation system?

Accepted Answer

This will depend on the type of surgery you have had and should always be discussed and advised by your healthcare professional.

Question 46

I am worried Qufora® IrriSedo rectal irrigation will make my haemorrhoids worse?

Accepted Answer

Your healthcare professional will assess you prior to using Qufora® IrriSedo rectal irrigation. They will assess if you do have haemorrhoids and determine if it is suitable for you to commence rectal irrigation.
You should always insert the cone or catheter slowly and carefully to prevent any trauma, pain, or bleeding and ensure the cone or catheter is properly lubricated.

Question 47

I can’t get my product to work properly?

Accepted Answer

If you are finding your system isn’t working you can contact the myqufora support team using the details on the Contact Us page. You can also visit our website where we offer videos and booklets:

Qufora® IrriSedo Mini System
Qufora® IrriSedo Cone System
Qufora® IrriSedo Klick System
Qufora® IrriSedo Balloon System
Qufora® IrriSedo Bed System

Question 48

No water has come out after my irrigation – what do I do?

Accepted Answer

First thing is don’t panic as this can sometimes happen in the early stages of rectal irrigation. Wait for a few more minutes, you can try coughing – and massaging your abdomen, this can help to start your bowel moving. If this persists, contact your healthcare professional for advice.

Question 49

Can I travel abroad with Qufora® IrriSedo rectal irrigation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can travel! If you are travelling abroad, we would advise that you ensure that you split your supplies across your hand and hold luggage (just in case anything does not arrive!) Likewise, we would suggest that you take a few extra supplies in case of any delays at your destination.
One thing to be aware of when you take your system abroad is the water quality – if you can drink the tap water then this is fine to use for irrigation. Should you be in any doubt, cooled boiled water can also be used as well as bottled water – remember that this should be lukewarm, similar to the temperature of a baby bath (36-38 degrees).
You should also be mindful that if you are travelling to a different time zone, this may take your bowel some time to get used to your new regime.
Myqufora also offer travel certificates for your products – this explains in various languages what these products are should these be questioned. To obtain a certificate, please contact the team using the details on the Contact Us page.

Question 50

I am flying abroad and will need to irrigate mid-flight, where should I dispose of my single-use equipment?

Accepted Answer

You can dispose of these in the airplane toilet disposal bin. It may be worthwhile booking a seat in advance near to the toilets and familiarising yourself with the location of the toilets when you enter the plane.

Question 51

The travel company have lost my luggage, who should I contact regarding my Qufora® IrriSedo equipment?

Accepted Answer

If you order through a home delivery service, you can contact them for assistance.  Qufora® Direct can be contacted on direct@qufora.co.uk or you can contact info@myqufora.com. If you do not receive your items through a home delivery service, please contact your GP in the first instance.

Question 52

I am travelling to a different time zone; will this affect my irrigation?

Accepted Answer

If possible, it is best to stick to your routine with irrigation whilst abroad. You can calculate your time difference and attempt to irrigate when you usually would back in the UK.

Question 53

Can I use the water abroad to irrigate?

Accepted Answer

One thing to be aware of when you take your system abroad is the water quality – if you can drink the tap water then this is fine to use for irrigation. Should you be in any doubt, cooled boiled water can also be used as well as bottled water – remember that this should be lukewarm, similar to the temperature of a baby bath (36-38 degrees).

Question 54

Am I likely to be stopped at Customs with my Qufora® IrriSedo system?

Accepted Answer

Myqufora also offer travel certificates for your products – this explains in various languages what these products are should these be questioned. To obtain a certificate, please contact the team using the details on the Contact Us page.

WHAT IS RECTAL IRRIGATION?

Rectal irrigation provides a reliable bowel management option, it is easy, quick, effective and hygienic to use, allowing you to live life to the full and not worry about your bowels.

AN INTRODUCTION TO RECTAL IRRIGATION

Rectal irrigation (sometimes called anal irrigation or trans-anal irrigation) has been practiced for many hundreds of years. Over recent years it has been more widely used as a bowel management solution.

It simply involves instilling warm tap water into the rectum via the anus and then allowing the water to be expelled, thus emptying the colon.

Studies have shown that regular rectal irrigation can be an effective solution to prevent faecal incontinence and constipation. It can also reduce the amount of time spent on bowel management.

It is a very effective method of clearing the bowel and maintaining bowel function, and the method improves the quality of life, dignity and self esteem.

Rectal irrigation should be performed regularly (usually daily or every other day) to achieve full continence and prevent constipation.

Rectal irrigation provides a reliable bowel management option, it is easy, quick, effective and hygienic to use, allowing you to live life to the full and not worry about your bowels.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS RECTAL IRRIGATION?

When using conservative methods of bowel management such as manual evacuation, only the distal part of the bowel is generally emptied (figure 1). When using rectal irrigation, the bowel has been shown to empty to the splenic flexure (figure 2).

Using warm water rectal irrigation can successfully empty the bowel so that a further irrigation does not have to take place for another 24-48 hours.

Studies have shown that using trans-anal irrigation is superior to using conservative bowel management methods for individuals with neurogenic bowel dysfunction, regarding long term symptoms and improved quality of life.