Is it okay to use warm water instead of a fleet enema (sodium bisphosphate)?

Yes: It really depends why you are doing an enema. If you have been advised to do a fleets enema in preparation for a procedure, it would be best to follow that recommendation. If you are taking a daily or periodic enema to aid bowel function, then tap water may be adequate. In theory, warm water relaxes the bowel, so a warm water enema may be less effective than a room or tap temperature enema.

Enema: Tap water enemas are fine. However, if you are having problems with constipation at age 53, you should see your physician for further workup.