Condition
Sitz bath
David Cohen, M.D.Published 5 May 20051 min read
Key points
- 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.
- 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.
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.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
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