SITZ BATH
A sitz bath is an effective and soothing postpartum remedy for new mothers. It is a shallow bath that is used to help heal and provide relief from the discomforts associated with childbirth. The warm water helps relax sore muscles, reduce inflammation, and can even help reduce the risk of infection. Sitz baths can provide immediate relief and help speed up the recovery process. They can be used in conjunction with other therapies, such as over-the-counter medications or physical therapy to provide maximum relief. Taking a sitz bath can be a simple and effective way to ease the discomfort of postpartum recovery and help ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and baby. Please keep reading for details on the following topics:
Indications for a sitz bath
How to take a sitz bath in a tub
How to take a sitz bath using a sitz bath kit
Acceptable temperatures for a sitz bath
INDICATIONS FOR A SITZ BATH
To relieve pain and swelling to the perineum
To cleanse the perineum by reducing the risk of infection
To speed up the healing process of the perineum by increasing circulation throughout the wound
To soothe pain and expedite the healing process of a hemorrhoid
To help facilitate relaxation
To provide therapeutic relief for persons with hemorrhoids, anal fissures, prostatitis, genital herpes, and chronic constipation
Itching
Irritation
Minor pain
A recent surgery to the vagina or hemorrhoid
A recent vaginal delivery
Discomfort due to hemorrhoids or passing stool
HOW TO TAKE A SITZ BATH IN A TUB
When deciding what type of sitz bath you want, you have a few choices: your bathtub, a kit, or a sitz spray
All three options are effective, so choose what works best for you based on space constraints and timing
Wash and dry hands
Scrub and clean the tub thoroughly
Fill the tub with a few inches of warm water
Ensure that the temperature is as warm as the skin can bare
Add a teaspoon of salt and mix
Place a clean bath towel on the bottom of the tub
Sit, submerging the vagina and anus into the water
Relax for 10 to 20 minutes or until the temperature of the water changes
Pat dry self and get dressed
Clean the tub
Repeat 4 to 6 times daily
HOW TO USE A KIT TO TAKE A SITZ BATH
A sitz bath kit includes a special plastic bowl that fits over the toilet
The kit will be cleaned thoroughly prior to being used
Water, as warm as one can bare will be added to the bay
A teaspoon of salt will also be added to the water
The toilet sit will be lifted and the plastic seat will be placed on the toilet bowl
The bag will be hung on the shower curtain
One will allow the warm water to be poured into the bath prior to sitting onto the bath to soak for 15 to 20 minutes
After the bath, one must pat dry self and get dressed
The bag must be washed and dried in preparation for its next use
ACCEPTABLE TEMPERATURES FOR SITZ BATH
Cold water
Provides pain relief
Helps reduce swelling
Warm water
Promotes good circulation
Stimulates blood flow,
Very comfortable to sit in