How to Make a Sitz Bath at Home

A sitz bath may be soothing after childbirth.

Perineal pain occurs from surgery, childbirth, hemorrhoids, infection and injury. This pain can be particularly difficult to manage due to pressure that is placed on the perineal area with sitting, and stress from urination and defecation. A sitz bath is an easy way to reduce pain and swelling in the perineal area. It can be used several times each day and requires little equipment. Purchase sitz baths at drug stores, or easily make your own at home.

Things You'll Need

• Bathtub
• Tub cleaner
• Warm water
• Salt

Instructions

1. Thoroughly clean and rinse the bathtub before you fill the sitz bath to reduce bacteria. Open wounds and surgical incisions are at risk for infection when exposed to bacteria.

2. Fill the bathtub with 3 to 4 inches of very warm, but not hot, water. Add one-half cup of salt to the water.

3. Lower yourself into the tub into a sitting position. Bend your knees toward your chest or prop your feet on the edge of the tub to take pressure off the sore area. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Pat the area dry with a clean towel. Repeat several times per day.

References

• ColoRectal Specialists; Instruction Before and After Anal or Rectal Surgery; David Schuval, MD and Ralph Silverman, MD
• Colorectal/Anorectal Surgery, Colonoscopy, Anorectal Physiology: Discharge Instructions After Fistulotomy
• Heartland Women's Health Care, P.C.; Patient Instructions; Sitz Bath