Final answer:
Carminative enemas are used to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort by instilling fluid into the rectum to stimulate peristalsis, aiding in the evacuation of feces or trapped gas.
Step-by-step explanation:
Carminative enemas are used to relieve gastrointestinal discomfort such as gas and bloating. A small amount of fluid is instilled into the rectum, usually containing additives that cause the rectum and colon to distend, stimulating peristalsis. This process facilitates the movement and eventual expulsion of the trapped gas or fecal matter, thereby relieving discomfort. During the process of elimination, food residue, concentrated and temporarily stored prior to defecation, becomes feces which are eliminated through contractions of the rectal muscles, aided by voluntary maneuvers such as Valsalva's maneuver. This maneuver involves an increase in intra-abdominal pressure, which supports the expulsion process.