Taking a Sitz Bath at Home
This article is for people whose skin is irritated or damaged in the perineal area: the anus, vulva, or scrotum. You will learn what a sitz bath is, how to take one at home, and how to care for the area afterward.
What is a sitz bath?
A sitz bath is a localized bath, cold or lukewarm, dedicated to the perineal area—the region between the legs, including the anus, vulva, or testicles.
The bath consists of plain water, or water to which baking soda, salt, or an herbal infusion has been added.
It is often recommended for people whose skin in this area is cracked, raw, or irritated as a result of:
- diarrhea
- hemorrhoids
- surgery
- radiation therapy
- chemotherapy
How is a sitz bath useful?
The sitz bath:
- cleans the area without friction;
- limits irritation caused by repeated wiping;
- soothes the skin—you generally feel more comfortable right after;
- is traditionally associated with better local circulation, which supports healing.
How often?
The frequency depends on what you are using it for. To soothe the skin, plan on 1 to 4 sitz baths per day, to be adjusted according to your comfort.
Some people take one after every bowel movement, in place of toilet paper, when the anal region is painful.
Others take a cold sitz bath every morning for tone and a feeling of freshness.
In the case of a medical condition, your doctor will indicate what is best for your situation.
How to take a sitz bath?
There are two ways to proceed. You can use:
- a plastic basin that fits over your toilet ;
- your bathtub.
With a basin placed on the toilet
- Rinse the basin to remove any soap or salt residue.
- Lift the toilet seat and place the basin on the bowl.
- Fill it two-thirds full with cold or lukewarm water—never too hot, to avoid burns. The reference temperature is between 37 and 39 °C. Tip: if the water is too hot on your wrist, it is too hot to sit in.
- You can add 1 to 2 teaspoons of baking soda, or 2 teaspoons of salt. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Sit down carefully and let soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Excess water drains into the toilet through the openings at the back of the basin: no overflow.
- Dry afterward by patting the area with a clean, lint-free towel, without rubbing.
- Let the area air out as much as possible. Choose loose-fitting cotton underwear: loose boxers are perfect.
- Clean the basin after each use.
In a bathtub
You will need more water and a proportionally larger quantity of ingredients. Fill the bathtub to cover your thighs, which is about 13 centimeters deep, then follow the same steps.
After the bath
People prone to irritation or dry skin can apply their usual cream after the sitz bath, or ask their doctor for advice.
The sitz bath is a comfort treatment. It does not replace medical advice or treatment.
