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.