Overview

A barium enema test is an X-ray of your large intestine (colon and rectum). It is used to help find diseases and other problems that affect the large intestine.

Before the X-ray, you will be given an enema that contains barium. Barium is also called contrast material. It is put into your intestine through a tube that is placed in your rectum. The barium helps your large intestine show up clearly on the X-ray picture.

A barium enema can be uncomfortable. But usually the test does not take a long time. Many people say that the preparation is the hardest part of the test.

How do you prepare for the test?

• For 1 to 3 days before the test, you will drink water, fruit juices, plain coffee or tea, and broth.
• On the day before the test:
  • Drink plenty of fluids. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
  • You will take a laxative. Your doctor will give you this to empty your intestines.
  • You may be asked to do a water enema to clean your colon. You may need to do this again on the day of the test.

Before a barium enema, tell your doctor if you:

• Are or think you may be pregnant.
• Are allergic to latex. Latex products are often used to give the barium. If you are allergic to latex, different products will be used.
• Are allergic to barium.
• Have had an upper digestive barium test (upper GI or barium swallow) recently.

After the test, you may have light-coloured stools and cramping for a few days.