FAQ
Colonics & colon hydrotherapy — questions & answers.
The most common things people ask us about colonics, colon hydrotherapy, detox, and what to expect — answered plainly.
1. Are colonics and colon hydrotherapy the same thing?
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Yes. Colonics, colon hydrotherapy, colonic irrigation, and colon therapy all refer to the same practice — using warm filtered water to gently cleanse the large intestine. 'Colon hydrotherapy' is the modern, medical term for what many people still call a colonic.
2. Can colon hydrotherapy help with bloating and constipation?
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Bloating and constipation are two of the most common reasons people first come in. Colon hydrotherapy uses gentle, low-pressure water to help clear built-up waste and encourage the colon's natural peristalsis, and many clients report noticeable relief from bloating, constipation, and sluggish digestion after a series of sessions. Everyone's experience is different — colon hydrotherapy is a cleansing process, not a cure or treatment for disease.
3. How often should I get a colonic?
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It depends on where you are in the process. During the initial Eliminate phase, most clients come in weekly for 4 to 6 sessions. From there we retrain the colon with a couple sessions two weeks apart, then move to ongoing maintenance every 1 to 3 months. Anyone can also come in for a single session whenever they want — no program required.
4. Does colon hydrotherapy support detox or a parasite cleanse?
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Colon hydrotherapy is a gentle detoxification process — by removing built-up waste, it takes pressure off the liver, kidneys, skin, and lungs so the body can better do what it's designed to do. Many people also come in as part of a broader detox or parasite-cleanse routine, since a clearer colon environment is a better foundation for the rest of that work.
5. What's the difference between colon hydrotherapy, colonic irrigation, and enemas?
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All three describe ways to cleanse the colon, but they aren't equally thorough. An enema only reaches the rectum and lower descending colon. Colon hydrotherapy and colonic irrigation machines use gravity or low pressure to introduce water throughout the colon — and of the three, hydrotherapy provides the most complete cleanse.
6. How many sessions should I have?
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Most clients move through a three-phase process averaging 8 to 10 sessions total. Phase one (Eliminate) is on average 4 to 6 weekly sessions to clear out old waste. Phase two (Retrain) is about 2 sessions, two weeks apart, to retrain the colon to flush efficiently. Phase three (Maintain) is one session every 1 to 3 months. That said, you don't need to be on a program to benefit — a single session is always welcome. Lori will tailor the plan to your goals, schedule, and budget.
7. Should I see a doctor before my first session?
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When administered by a trained therapist and you have no pre-existing conditions, a medical exam usually isn't needed. If you have any concerns or known conditions, consult your physician. Colon hydrotherapy is not appropriate for certain diagnoses — see our contraindications page for the full list.
8. Is the procedure painful?
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No. A properly administered session shouldn't be painful. Your colon may contract suddenly during the process — some people compare it to mild cramping or passing gas — but pain isn't part of the treatment. The most important thing is open communication with your therapist throughout.
9. How long does a session take?
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Your first visit is about 90 minutes total: roughly 20–30 minutes for intake and conversation, then 45–60 minutes for the treatment itself. Follow-up sessions are usually 40–45 minutes inside a one-hour appointment.
10. What can I do afterward?
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Almost anything. You shouldn't feel any urgent need to eliminate. Avoid a heavy meal or excessive alcohol right after. Most clients leave feeling light and peaceful.
11. Is colon hydrotherapy safe?
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Yes. Modern equipment includes multiple water-filtration stages, pre-sterilized single-use disposables, and a closed effluent system. Disposables are never reused, and certified therapists are required to maintain training and licensing under state regulations.
12. Can I have a session during my menstrual period?
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Yes. Your body is already in a natural cleansing process, and many people find treatment during that time particularly beneficial.
13. Will too many sessions make my colon stop working on its own?
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No. The colon is a tubular muscle that moves waste through involuntary peristalsis. The fill-and-release cycle of a session actually stimulates and tones that muscle. There's no evidence of dependency from regular hydrotherapy.
14. Doesn't a colonic wash away all the good bacteria?
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This is a common myth. Beneficial bacteria thrive in an acidic, balanced digestive environment — and when that balance is disrupted, harmful bacteria can grow unchecked, leading to gas, bloating, and other issues. Cleansing the colon supports a healthier environment overall.
15. Should I take probiotics or digestive enzymes after a session?
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Yes — they're a great way to build and balance the bacterial environment in your gut. Friendly strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium, and quality digestive enzymes are all worth considering.
16. I have another question. How do I get in touch?
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Call us at (801) 479-5616 and leave your contact info and the best time to call you back. You can also reach out through our Contact page.