Sitz bath

Definition

A sitz bath is a warm-water bath taken in the sitting position that covers only the hips and buttocks. It may be used for either healing or hygiene purposes. The water may contain medication.

Sitz baths are often used to relieve pain, itching, or muscle spasms. For example, the baths are often recommended to soothe pain and promote healing after hemorrhoid surgery or an episiotomy from childbirth.

Johns Hopkins patient information

Last revised: December 7, 2012
by Sharon M. Smith, M.D.

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