Sitz Bath

But what is a sitz bath, how do I use one and how does it help with my symptoms? Are all valid questions but you might also ask is there an alternative that i can use instead?

What is a Sitz Bath?

Basically it is a small portable bath usually made from plastic. Typically it is large enough for you to soak your buttocks, slightly larger than a regular washing up bowl. The term has gone on to mean the actual act of sitting in a bath of warm water, that may or may not contain some medicated product, with enough water to just cover the pelvic area.

How do I use a Sitz bath?

Fill with warm water and any medication you may have, sometimes salt is good for shrinking hemorrhoids for example. Once full sit in it. Voila!

Use a sitz bath for hemorrhoids as follows:

Fill your regular bath with hot water and fill the sitz bath with cold water. Sit in the hot bath for ten minutes then transfer to the cold sitz bath. Repeat this process a couple of times to help reduce swelling especially if you have external hemorrhoids. Using the smaller sitz to hold the cold water will make it much easier as you will be less likely to get too cold as only your bottom is submerged.

How does a sitz bath help with my symptoms?

It is more a convenient way to soak the affected area and to deliver medication, usually homeopathic to a delicate region of the body. The repeated soaking in hot then cold water can help reduce inflammation and irritation. Using a sitz bath at home is a way to help improve your symptoms and aid recovery.

Can i use something else?

Of course. You can use a plastic bowl used for laundry or even a dog bath both will do exactly the same thing. To hold cold water an inflatable kids paddling pool can be used although I would not recommend using hot water in these. The main advantage of using a sitz bath is that it holds less water than a conventional bath tub so in my opinion it is not really essential to buy a specialized product.