Taking a Sitz Bath

I first heard of sitz bath after giving birth to my 4th baby, Elisha. My ob had to perform an episiotomy since she was a bit big (at 3.2 kilos) for me. The nurse would come a few 2-3 times a day to give me a bath – dipping me in a tub waist down. It relieved the pain and from what my nurse told me, it would help heal the cut and suture of the peritoneum faster.

Sitz literally means to sit (from the German word sitzen). Sitting down in a tub while bathing is maybe the reason why it was named as such. Some people use baking soda or salt to treat hemorrhoids and anal fistulae; women suffering from menstrual cramps or had a recent episiotomy also takes this kind of bath. This may also reduce discomfort due to inflammation of the prostate gland.

The bathtub used is a plastic or ceramic tub that can be placed over the toilet and filled with water. Sitting in the bathtub for 15 – 20 minutes is recommended to patients. One can take it in a regular bathtub, but the patient’s feet needs to be kept over the side of the tub or put in the water, while the knees are kept bent. This may not be quite as hygienic when taking it in a sitz bathtub since constant flow of warm water into the bath is needed. Sitting in warm water allows healing and relief from pain because it reaches the impacted area. It uses the basis of water or hydro therapy. If you believe in the saying “water is life”, then this is one of the many things that water can do.

Drugstore chains sell the sitz bathtub. Pharmacies and medical supply stores also sell them. Should you need bath after surgical procedure or giving birth, ask your physician or your nurse if they can provide you with one before you go home.

If you want to take a home it here are some helpful reminders –

1. Prepare all the things you need before you dip in. You will need either salt or baking soda or even vinegar (for vaginal infection), depending on your physician’s advice. You may ask someone to help you when you take it at home. If you’re too embarrassed to ask for help, have everything you need by your side before taking a bath.

2. You should fill the bathtub with warm water. Keep in mind that the water will feel cooler to your hands than it will to the rest of the body. Use your elbow to check water temp.

3. Use the bag that comes with the package for filling with water and hang it with a hook (like in the hospital, typically an IV pole is used). Don’t forget, you should hang it about higher than the toilet. The tube should provide a continuous flow of water. Use the clamp provided to stop the water.

4. There are bathtubs designed with a vent to prevent water from overflowing. If your tub does not have a vent, be careful not to overfill it.

5. After taking a sitz bath, use a clean towel and gently pat the affected area dry.

6. You may take it as often as recommended by the doctor; usually several times a day as needed to ease soreness.

7. Always wash your tub after using it. It will be unsanitary to leave it with the water and then use it again. Keep it in a clean dry bag and then wash it before using it again. Remember, you are using the tub in a sensitive area so it would be best to keep it clean and dry all the time.

Let’s get ready to take your first home it! All you need to do is follow these simple steps and you’re one you’re way to relieving yourself from the pain and discomfort that hemorrhoids or even menstrual cramps bring!