How to Use a Glycerin Suppository Safely — Step-by-step Guide for a 12‑Year‑Old

Important: Always tell a parent, caregiver, or another adult before using a suppository. Follow the package directions or your doctor’s instructions. If you feel very sick or have severe belly pain, fever, or vomiting, don’t use a suppository — tell an adult and contact a doctor.

What a glycerin suppository does: It helps soften stool and makes it easier to have a bowel movement. It usually works in about 15–30 minutes.

1. Check the package and get help if needed
   • Make sure the suppository is the right kind and dose for your age. If you’re not sure, ask an adult or a pharmacist.
   • Look at the expiration date. Don’t use it if it’s expired or the wrapper is damaged.
2. Wash your hands

   Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, then dry your hands with a clean towel.

3. Get ready
   • Take off the wrapper from the suppository only when you’re ready to use it.
   • If the package says you may, you can wet the tip with a little water or use a water-based lubricant (only if the instructions say to). Don’t use oil-based lotions or Vaseline unless a doctor told you to.
4. Find a comfortable position

   Lie on your side with your lower leg straight and your top knee bent toward your chest (this is usually the easiest). You can also squat or sit on the toilet if that’s more comfortable.

5. Insert the suppository
   1. Gently separate your buttocks with one hand.
   2. With the other hand, hold the suppository pointed end first and gently push it into the rectum (the hole where stool comes out). Push it about 1 inch (2–3 cm) for children and teens unless the package gives a different amount. If you can’t push that far, push as far as is comfortable.
   3. If it’s uncomfortable or painful, stop and tell the adult helping you.
6. Stay still for a few minutes

   Keep lying on your side for about 5 minutes or sit still so the suppository doesn’t come out. If a small amount comes out, try again with a new suppository if the package or a parent says it’s okay.

7. Clean up
   • Wipe any residue with toilet paper, flush the paper if the instructions allow, and throw the empty wrapper away in the trash.
   • Wash your hands again.
8. Wait for the bowel movement

   The suppository usually works within 15–30 minutes. If nothing happens after the time on the package or your doctor said to wait, tell the adult with you.

When to tell an adult or call a doctor:

• If you have a lot of pain, bleeding, or severe discomfort after using the suppository.
• If you have a fever, vomiting, or very bad belly pain before using it.
• If the suppository won’t go in or keeps coming out.
• If you need to use suppositories often (more than what the package or doctor says).
• If you think you might be allergic to anything in the suppository (like glycerin or another ingredient).

Extra tips:

• Store suppositories in a cool place so they don’t melt. If they soften, put them in the fridge if the package allows.
• Only use suppositories as often as the package or doctor recommends. Overuse can cause problems.
• If you’re unsure about any step, always ask a parent, caregiver, or pharmacist to help.

If you want, tell me what the package says and I can help explain it, or tell me what your adult or doctor recommended.