Self administering enema syringe, Europe, before 1935
Enema syringes vary in shape and material but they are all intended to introduce liquids such as medications or purgatives into the body via the rectum – a once very common medical procedure. After the ivory nozzle was inserted into the anus, liquid was pumped through the metal tubing from the metal reservoir. It allowed a person to give themselves the enema rather than relying on a physician or nurse and so was probably used in the home.
Object number:
A158800
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: enema syringe
A syringe for adminstering enemas
Glossary: enema
A liquid injected into the anus. Enemas can be carried out for medical reasons, as a treatment for constipation, or as a way to give drugs.