Is rectal mucus discharge normal after an enema?
By
Dr Natalia Marceli Stephanes (PhD)
Author bio
Dr Natália Marcéli Stephanes PhD is a Pharmacist with expertise in Drugs Administration and Toxicity; Discovery of New Drugs; Cancer Treatment; Biochemical Analyzes and Hematological Analyzes. She writes and reviews content on these topics.
Dr Natália Marcéli Stephanes’ Highlights:
- Pharmacist at the Department of Health of Santa Catarina State, Brazil
- PhD with a focus on oncology treatment
- Years of experience in commercial pharmacy
- Bachelor, Master and PhD degrees in Pharmacy at the Federal University of Santa Catarina
Professional Experience:
From her undergraduate studies to her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Pharmacy, Dr Natália Marcéli Stephanes has participated in numerous scientific studies in the field of oncology and onco-hematology at the University Hospital of the Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Her research has focused on understanding the molecular and biochemical bases of malignant neoplasms and investigating safer and more effective therapeutic alternatives.
Dr Natália Marcéli Stephanes has also served as an assistant professor of haematology for undergraduate students at the Federal University of Santa Catarina. Additionally, she held the position of professor of Hospital Pharmacy at the Qualificar Technical School in Brazil, where she developed instructional materials for use in the Pharmacy Postgraduate Program at the Leonardo Da Vinci University Center.
In addition to her academic experiences, Dr Natália Marcéli Stephanes possesses a strong expertise in commercial pharmacy, with in-depth knowledge of medications, their routes of administration, desired effects, adverse effects, and toxicity.
Currently, Dr Natália Marcéli Stephanes works as a Pharmacist at the Health Department of Santa Catarina State, where her role entails providing pharmaceutical scientific consulting services to judges.
Education:
- 2016 Bachelor in Pharmacy at the Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil
- 2018 Master in Pharmacy at the Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil
- 2023 PhD in Pharmacy at the Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil
The main publications of Dr Natália Marcéli Stephanes are:
Falchetti M ; Delgobo M, Zancanaro H, Almeida K, Das Neves RN, Dos Santos B, Stefanes NM, et al. Bishop Omics-based identification of an NRF2-related auranofin resistance signature in cancer: Insights into drug repurposing. Comput. Biol. Med [Internet]. 2023; 152:106347.
Feuser PM, Matos dos Santos PC, Cordeiro AP, Stefanes NM, Walter LO, Maioral MF, Santos-Silva MC, et al. Antineoplastic activity of free 4-nitrochalcone and encapsulated in poly(thioether-ester) nanoparticles obtained by thiol-ene polymerization in two human leukemia cell lines (Jurkat and K562). J Drug Deliv Sci Technol [Internet]. 2022; 67:102924.
Jacques AV, Stefanes NM, Walter LO, Perondi DM, Efe FL, Souza LFS, Sens L, et al. Synthesis of chalcones derived from 1-naphthylacetophenone and evaluation of their cytotoxic and apoptotic effects in acute leukemia cell lines. Bioorg. Chem [Internet]. 2021; 116:105315.
Duarte BF, Vieira DSC, Lisboa ML, Stefanes NM, Grando LJ, Santos-Silva MC. Características clínico-epidemiológicas de pacientes portadores de carcinoma de células escamosas de boca. Arquivos Catarinenses de Medicina. 2021; 50(2): 232–245.
Machado V, Jacques AV, Stefanes NM, Santos-Silva MC, Biavatti MW. Anti-leukemic activity of semisynthetic derivatives of Lupeol. Nat. Prod. Res. 2021; 35(22):4494-4501.
Bigolin A, Maioral MF, Stefanes NM, Mascarello A, Chiaradia-Delatorre LD, Nunes RJ, Yunes RA, et al. A novel sulfonamide derivative as a strong and selective apoptotic agent against hematological malignancies. Chem. Pap. 2020; 74:2965–2976.
Bigolin A, Maioral MF, Stefanes NM, Zatelli GA, Philippus AC, Falkenberg MB, Santos-Silva MC. Cytotoxic mechanisms of primin, a natural quinone isolated from Eugenia hiemalis, on hematological cancer cell lines. Anticancer Drugs. 2020; 31(7):709-717.
Maioral MF, Stefanes NM, Neufeldt PD, Chiaradia-Delatorre LD, Nunes RJ, Santos-Silva MC. Aldehyde biphenyl chalcones induce immunogenic apoptotic-like cell death and are promising new safe compounds against a wide range of hematologic cancers. Future Med. Chem. 2020; 12(8):673–688.
Perondi DM, Jacques AV, Stefanes NM, Maioral MF, Sens L, Pacheco LA, Cury NM, et al. A novel thiosemicarbazone as a promising effective and selective compound for acute leukemia. Anticancer Drugs. 2019; 30(8):p 828-837.
Rengifo AFC, Stefanes NM, Toigo J, Mendes C, Argenta DF, Dotto MER, Santos-Silva MC, et al. PEO-chitosan nanofibers containing carboxymethyl-hexanoyl chitosan/dodecyl sulfate nanoparticles loaded with pyrazoline for skin cancer treatment. Eur. Polym. J. 2019; 119:335-343.
Rengifo AFC, Stefanes NM, Toigo J, Mendes C, Santos-Silva MC, Nunes RJ, Parize AL, et al. A new and efficient carboxymethyl-hexanoyl chitosan/dodecyl sulfate nanocarrier for a pyrazoline with antileukemic activity. Mater. Sci. Eng. C [Internet]. 2019; 105:110051.
Maioral MF, Stefanes NM, Bigolin A, Zatelli GA, Philippus AC, Falkenberg MB, Santos-Silva MC. Miconidine acetate, a new selective and cytotoxic compound with synergic potential, induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in leukemia cells. Invest. New Drugs. 2019; 37:912–922.
Srefanes NM, Toigo J, Maioral MF, Jacques AV, Chiaradia-Delatorre LD, Perondi DM, Ribeiro AAB, et al. Synthesis of novel pyrazoline derivatives and the evaluation of death mechanisms involved in their antileukemic activity. Bioorg. Med. Chem. 2019; 27(2):375-382.
Maioral MF, Bodack CN, Stefanes NM, Bigolin A, Mascarello A, Chiaradia-Delatorre LD, Yunes RA, et al. Cytotoxic effect of a novel naphthylchalcone against multiple cancer cells focusing on hematologic malignancies. Biochim. 2017; 140:48-57.
You can view some of Dr Natália’s work below and links to her professional profile below.
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Natalia-Stephanes
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliamarceli/
Is rectal mucus discharge normal after an enema?
Rectal discharge containing mucus is considered normal after using an enema. The mucus is considered a normal part of the large intestine which helps your bowel move.
Oftentimes, this mucus builds up in your large intestine. Using an enema can dilute or loosen up some of the mucus that can come out, either with or without your bowels (1).
In some cases, the enema can slightly damage the lining of your large intestine, as a result of which the mucus production is increased as your body’s response to soothe the irritated area (2). This mucus clears up in some time when the irritation starts to subside.
However, if you’re experiencing mucus discharge long after using an enema or you continue to experience it, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider and get a proper diagnosis.
Normal vs abnormal rectal mucus discharge after getting an enema
To differentiate between normal and abnormal rectal mucus discharge after getting an enema, there are a few factors to consider. Normal rectal mucus discharge is a natural occurrence in the body and helps with the lubrication of the rectum and the passage of stool.
It is usually clear or slightly white in colour and is not accompanied by any other symptoms such as pain, itching, or a foul odour. This discharge is typically minimal and not excessive.
On the other hand, abnormal rectal mucus discharge may indicate an underlying issue or infection. If the discharge is accompanied by symptoms like blood in the stool, persistent pain, changes in bowel habits, or a strong odour, it could be a sign of a more serious condition. (3)
If you’re unsure whether your rectal mucus discharge is normal or abnormal, it’s always best to consult with a medical professional who can provide an accurate diagnosis based on your specific symptoms and medical history. They will be able to determine if further investigation or treatment is necessary.
It is important to note that enemas do expire, so it is important to check for the safety and potency of enemas before they are used.
How to manage rectal mucus discharge after an enema?
To manage rectal mucus discharge after an enema, there are a few steps you can take:
- Monitor the discharge: Keep an eye on the amount and consistency of the mucus. If it is minimal and gradually decreases over time, it may resolve on its own without intervention.
- Maintain good hygiene: Practice proper hygiene by gently cleaning the anal area after each bowel movement. Use mild, unscented soap and warm water to avoid irritation.
- Avoid irritants: Stay away from products that could irritate the anal area, such as scented toilet paper, harsh soaps, or perfumed wipes. These can aggravate the situation and contribute to increased mucus production.
- Use a barrier cream: Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a barrier cream around the anus can help protect the skin and prevent further irritation.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet: Adequate hydration and a healthy diet with plenty of fibre can promote regular bowel movements and reduce the likelihood of excessive mucus production.
If the rectal mucus discharge persists, increases in volume, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.
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References
1.-
Schmelzer M, Schiller LR, Meyer R, Rugari SM, Case P. Safety and effectiveness of large-volume enema solutions. Appl Nurs Res. 2004 Nov;17(4):265-74. PMID: 15573335. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15573335/
2.-
Leriche M, Devroede G, Sanchez G, Rossano J. Changes in the rectal mucosa induced by hypertonic enemas. Dis Colon Rectum. 1978 May-Jun;21(4):227-36. doi: 10.1007/BF02586697. PMID: 657932. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/657932/
3.-
SOERGEL KH, INGELFINGER FJ. COMPOSITION OF RECTAL MUCUS IN NORMAL SUBJECTS AND PATIENTS WITH ULCERATIVE COLITIS. Gastroenterology. 1964 Dec;47:610-6. PMID: 14234680. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14234680/
