Sitz Bath

What is a sitz bath?

A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that covers only your hips, buttocks, and perineum (the skin between the anus and the scrotum or vulva). It is used to gently clean, soothe, and heal irritated skin. The warm water can relax the muscles in the area, improve blood flow, and lessen muscle spasms. There are two ways to use a sitz bath:

• You can use a special plastic basin that fits on top of the toilet.
• If your provider says it is safe for you, you can sit in a regular bathtub with a few inches of warm water.

Why would I need a sitz bath?

A sitz bath can help with symptoms caused by:

• Hemorrhoids.
• Anal fissures or tears.
• Childbirth (perineal pain, stitches).
• Pelvic or rectal surgery.
• Minor skin infections or irritation.

Some cancers are treated using radiation therapy. If you are being treated with radiation therapy to your pelvis, rectum, prostate, bladder, cervix, or vagina, you may have:

• Skin irritation or burning in your genital or anal area.
• Tender, dry, peeling, or itchy skin in these areas.
• Pain with bowel movements.
• Pain or swelling of the perineum.

Radiation can make the skin more sensitive and slower to heal. A sitz bath helps by:

• Soothing irritated skin with warm water.
• Keeping the area clean without having to scrub the area. This can help prevent infection.
• Causing less discomfort during and after bowel movements.
• Improving blood flow to the area to help the area heal.

How do I use a sitz bath?

Using a sitz bath basin (on the toilet):

1. Wash your hands.
2. Place the basin on your toilet as written on the package.
3. Fill it with warm water (not hot). You will want about 3 to 4 inches of water in the basin.
4. Sit gently and soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Pat the area dry with a soft, clean towel.
6. Empty and clean the basin each time.

Using a bathtub:

1. Clean the tub first. Wash your hands.
2. Fill the tub with about 3 to 4 inches of warm water (not hot).
3. Sit and soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Pat the area dry with a soft, clean towel.

Do I need to add anything to the water?

Plain warm water is often best for skin that is irritated by radiation therapy. Only add salt or other products if your provider tells you to do so.

How often should I use a sitz bath?

Talk with your provider before using a sitz bath to make sure it is safe for you. Ask your provider how often you should be using it. Most times, you can use a sitz bath as you need it during the day, usually 3 to 4 times a day.

When should I call my provider?

Call your provider if:

• There is redness, pain, swelling, or open sores get worse.
• You see drainage, pus, or have a foul odor from the skin.
• You have fever or chills. Your provider will tell you at what temperature you should call.
• You have bleeding that is new or worsening.
• There is burning or pain that is not getting better with sitz baths.
• You are unsure whether a sitz bath is safe for you during radiation therapy.

Things to remember:

• Use warm water, not hot, to avoid burns. Skin affected by radiation is more sensitive.
• Keep the basin or tub clean to prevent infection.
• Pat dry with a soft towel. Do not rub.
• Stop the sitz bath if it causes more pain than relief.
• Ask your provider before adding anything to the bath, such as soaps, oils, or salt.