Patient education: How to take a sitz bath (The Basics)

What is a sitz bath? — A sitz bath is a shallow, warm bath that you sit in. It can help heal injuries in your genital area, perineum, or anal area. (The perineum is the area between the genitals and the anus.) A sitz bath can also help with symptoms like pain, swelling, itching, or burning.

Your doctor or nurse might suggest a sitz bath because you:

●Had a vaginal childbirth – This is when a baby is born through the vagina. Sometimes, vaginal birth can cause the perineum to tear.

●Have an anal fissure – This is a small tear in lining of the anus.

●Have hemorrhoids – These are swollen veins in the lower rectum that can cause pain or itching.

●Have another condition that is causing symptoms in the genital or anal area

How do I take a sitz bath?

●Fill a clean bathtub with 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 cm) of warm water – Make sure that the water is not too hot. If you do not have a bathtub, you can buy a special basin that fits over your toilet seat.

●Use plain water – Do not add soap, bubble bath, or anything else to the water. If you want, you can add 1 cup of Epsom salt.

●Sit in the water for 5 to 10 minutes at least 2 to 3 times a day. You can take sitz baths more often if needed.

●When you are done, drain the water and rinse the tub (or basin).

●Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel – Do not rub the area too hard. You can also use a hair dryer on a cool, low setting to dry the area.

When should I call the doctor? — Call your doctor for advice if:

●Your pain is getting worse.

●You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.

●You have heavy bleeding.

More on this topic

Patient education: Hemorrhoids (The Basics)
Patient education: Vaginal tearing during childbirth (The Basics)
Patient education: Anal fissure (The Basics)
Patient education: Rectovaginal fistula (The Basics)
Patient education: Vulvar itching (The Basics)

Patient education: Hemorrhoids (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Anal fissure (Beyond the Basics)