What is a Sitz Bath?
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A sitz bath can refer to a bath where the pelvic region is immersed in warm water, or to a type of tub, which makes taking the sitz bath easier. It is possible to take a sitz bath in a regular tub, but you either keep the feet over the side of the tub or put the feet in the water, keeping the knees bent. This may not be quite as hygienic as a sitz bath taken in a sitz bath tub.
Sitz derives from the German word sitzen, which means to sit. This is an apt term for describing what to do in a sitz bath, which is to merely sit in warm water. This treatment of localized bathing, with perhaps salt or baking soda, is prescribed for people with hemorrhoids, anal fistulae, with a recent episiotomy, a cut and suturing of the peritoneum when a woman has a baby, or for menstrual cramps. The sitz bath may also reduce discomfort due to inflammation of the prostate gland.
A sitz bath lasts 10-20 minutes depending upon doctor’s recommendations. Ease of taking a sitz bath will vary depending upon the type of sitz bath owned. Some sitz baths are made to fit over a toilet, and have a drain so any additional water will not leak over when you sit down. Others fit on top of a chair, or may be a chair with a sitz bath combined. You can often get away with using a large dish tub, but a person carrying extra weight may need a larger sized sitz bath.
Cleanliness is important when using a sitz bath of any type. The basin or tub should be thoroughly cleaned after each use. If you do plan to use a dish tub, it should be purchased new and should be used only for sitz baths. Cleaning and disinfecting between each use can help ensure that future sitz baths will not promote infection.
Price in sitz baths varies, with the least expensive usually less than 10 US dollars (USD). More complicated types with drains, or with a constant flow of warm water into the bath can be far more expensive. Even the least expensive sitz bath is likely to promote greater comfort when used with care and cleanliness. For additional safety, you may want to have someone else help you take a sitz bath, since some people note dizziness when standing up after sitting in the bath for ten minutes or longer.
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Discuss this Article
To anyone looking to purchase an antique sitz bath, I saw one in Seattle, Washington, at an architectural salvage store called the Restore. I think it was cast iron; very beautiful and decorative.
- anon21456
For those of you looking for old, ceramic sitz baths, try looking at architectural salvage stores. I saw one at the Old Home Depot in Mississippi. Businesses that specialize in salvaging stuff from old homes will usually be able to tell you where you can find things, or get them for you. Good luck!
- evelynbeth
I used a sitz bath in 2001 after my first child was born and I had a mild episiotomy. My doctor advised this treatment and it was very helpful...i'm still trying to figure out why i was not advised to do a sitz bath after a vaginal hernia repair.....any ideas?
- anon20016
My elderly father had his hemorrhoids removed at least 30 years ago. Recently he is having issues with them again. When he first had surgery he had a free standing ceramic sitz bath bowl that stood on iron/steel legs. He has one of those plastic sitz baths but really wants the type he used to have. I have googled every combination I can think of to try and find a ceramic sitz bowl. I really don't think anyone makes them anymore. If anyone out there knows of where I can find one I would be grateful. My dad is 82 yrs old and when he wants something specific it's hard for him to accept the fact things are just not made the way they once were.
Thanks. - anon18225
I just had a vaginal hernia repaired and I found out after the fact that sitz baths are getting harder and harder to find. I checked with 3 Wal-Marts, 2 CVS, 2 mom & pop pharmacies, 4 Walgreens, 3 Targets. I was finally able to locate one at a Walgreens. The pharmacist told me that they don't order them often because they just sit on the shelves. Does anyone know what the deal is? Why they seem to be going out of style? I found them very helpful when I had my babies back in the 70's and 80's
- anon13347
Hi Regina,
I believe that people are recommended sitz baths for episiotomy healing. I know I received this recommendation after having my two babies. I think you'd have to keep the environment of the sitz bath very clean. An alternative is to use an antibacterial spray, a bit like solarcaine, which helps keep the area from getting infected, and provides a little topical pain relief.
- anon12519
Hi am regina msc nursing student i want to know whether sitz bath can use for episiotomy healing?
- anon12363
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