Your questions answered

It varies a great deal from one person to the next, and from one session to the next for the same person. Diet, hydration and your usual bowel habits all make a difference. You'll sometimes see figures quoted online for how much a colonic removes — I'd treat those with scepticism, because there's no typical amount and nobody can tell you in advance what yours will be.

Most people describe gentle waves of pressure and fullness, and at times the urge to go to the loo. Unusual rather than uncomfortable is how it's most often put.

Most people find it's not painful. You may feel pressure or mild cramping as the water flows in and out, which passes quickly. You can ask me to pause or stop at any point.

Only about one to three inches into the rectum. It's a small, single-use speculum, and once it's in place it stays there for the session.

The system is fully enclosed and piped directly to drainage, you stay covered throughout, and it's a private room. I've been doing this for over twenty years — there's nothing you could say or do that I haven't seen before.

A new, single-use speculum and tubing are used for every client, without exception.

That varies from person to person, and I'd be cautious of anyone who gives you a number before meeting you. After your first session I'll tell you honestly what I think.

Keep food light and simple for the day before. Soups, steamed vegetables, fruit and plenty of water are ideal, and go easy on alcohol, fizzy drinks and anything heavy or rich. You're welcome to eat lightly on the day, but try to avoid food for two hours before your appointment.

If you usually go daily, often within a day or two. If you don't, it can be up to five days. Both are normal.

Yes. Most people carry on with their day as usual, though some feel a little tired, so it's worth not planning anything demanding for the evening of your first session.

It isn't suitable during pregnancy, or if you have inflammatory bowel disease, severe haemorrhoids, or have had abdominal surgery in the past six months. If you have any diagnosed condition or take regular medication, please call me before booking so we can talk it through.