A sitz bath can refer to a bath where the pelvic region is immersed in warm water, or to a type of tub that makes taking the sitz bath easier. It is possible to take a sitz bath in a regular bathtub, but the bather's feet either need to be kept over the side of the tub or put in the water, while the knees are kept bent. This may not be quite as hygienic as a sitz bath taken in a sitz bathtub.

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, sometimes with salt or baking soda, is prescribed for people with hemorrhoids or anal fistulae; who have undergone a recent episiotomy, a cut and suturing of the peritoneum done 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 typically lasts 10-20 minutes, depending upon a doctor’s recommendations. The ease of taking a sitz bath will vary depending upon the type of bath owned. Some baths are made to fit over a toilet, and have a drain so any additional water will not leak when the patient sits down. Others fit on top of a chair, or may be a chair with a sitz bath combined. Patients can often simply use 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.

The price of a sitz bath varies, but basic models are usually quite inexpensive. More complicated baths, including those 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, a patient may want to have someone else help him take a sitz bath, since some people note dizziness when standing up after sitting in the bath for ten minutes or longer.