A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that is used to cleanse the perineum. The perineum is the area between the rectum and the scrotum or vulva. A sitz bath can also provide relief from pain and itching in the genital area.
A sitz bath can be taken in a bathtub or a ready plastic kit available over the counter (OTC), which fits over the toilet. The kit is a round, shallow basin with a plastic bag that has long tubing at the end. This bag can be filled with warm water through the tubing. The basin is a little larger than a standard toilet bowl and can be placed underneath the toilet seat. This helps remaining seated while taking a sitz bath. A sitz bath with just warm water doesn’t require a doctor’s prescription. A pinch of table salt, a teaspoon of vinegar, or a pinch of baking soda can be added to the water to create a soothing solution with antiseptic properties. Doctors may prescribe medications, such as Povidone-iodine, or other additives to put in a sitz bath.
What are the uses of a sitz bath?
A sitz bath can be used regularly to cleanse the perineum. It cleanses and increases blood flow in the perineal area, which can promote faster healing. A sitz bath can relieve irritation, pain, and itching. Adults and children can use sitz baths. Parents should always supervise their children during a sitz bath.
A sitz bath may be advised for the following:
- Maintaining hygiene of the perineum
- Following recent surgery in the vulva or vagina
- Following childbirth
- Post-surgery for hemorrhoids
- Pain and discomfort because of hemorrhoids, bowel movements, anal fissures, or injuries
How to make a sitz bath in the bathtub?
Follow the below steps to make a sitz bath:
- A bathtub or a smaller, wide round tub (around 40 to 50 liters in size) can be used.
- The tub should first be cleaned thoroughly with a disinfectant, such as bleach and water.
- The tub should be filled 3 to 4 inch with warm water (the temperature of the water can be tested by placing a few drops on the back of the wrist).
- Some salt, apple cider vinegar or baking soda, or the doctor’s prescription medication may be added to the water.
- The perineum should then be soaked for 15 to 20 minutes. (Bend the knees and dangle the legs over the sides of the tub if possible.)
- Finish by rinsing the perineum without rubbing too hard and pat dry.
- The bathtub should then be washed thoroughly.
Using a sitz bath kit
A sitz bath kit is available at several stores and pharmacies. A prescription is not required to buy one. Follow the below steps to use a sitz bath kit:
- The sitz bath should be placed into the open toilet and filled with warm water.
- Some salt, apple cider vinegar or baking soda, or the doctor’s prescription medication may be added to the water.
- The perineum can be soaked for 15 to 20 minutes. Most sitz baths have a vent that prevents water from overflowing.
- Finish by rinsing the perineum without rubbing too hard and pat dry.
- The bath should then be washed thoroughly.
SLIDESHOW
The 14 Most Common Causes of Fatigue See SlideshowHerand A. Instead of a Sitz Bath, Use a Detachable Shower Head. Diseases of the Colon & Rectum October 2018; 61(10)e367. https://journals.lww.com/dcrjournal/Citation/2018/10000/Instead_of_a_Sitz_Bath,_Use_a_Detachable_Shower.20.aspx
Medline Plus. Sitz Bath. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002299.htm
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