Sitz Bath is the best natural treatment for anal fissures.
Anyone who has ever suffered from fissures would know how painful it is. While a simple sitz bath can do wonders.
A Sitz bath is a warm bath of the anal area. It cleanses and soothes the inflammation while easing the pain, itching, and discomfort in the genital area. Ayurvedic doctors often recommend a sitz bath to patients suffering from anal fissures, constipation, and hemorrhoids. It is also helpful to those who have undergone surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
What is a sitz bath?
Sitz bath basically came from the word ‘sit bed’ and it means sitting in a warm tub dunking the area below the bottom. This warm water helps improve blood circulation in the area and fastens the speed of healing of a crack or fissure. It further soothes your inflammation, soreness, and burning sensation. Sitz bath also helps fight infections and relieves your pain, itch, and irritation.
Adding medicines like panchavalkala kwatha, salts or baking powder to the water can further add to its benefits. A sitz bath is often prescribed by a doctor with added medications like betadine which has antibacterial properties. In addition to that, adding table salt, vinegar, or baking soda to the water can also help.
Who should get a sitz bath?
A sitz bath is a soothing cleanse of the anogenital area. It is safe and can be used by everyone from children to adults to elders. However, it is widely recommended for people with complaints of discomfort, itch, or pain in the vagina or anal area. Doctors often suggest sitz bath to –
- People who have recently undergone surgery on the vulva or vagina.
- New mothers who have recently given birth.
- Patients suffering from hemorrhoids.
- People suffering from piles or anal fissures.
- Those complaining of discomfort in bowel movements.
7 Amazing Sitz Bath Benefits
1. Sitz Bath Haemorrhoids
It is very beneficial in people suffering from hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are painful, itchy, and uncomfortable. They also make passing stool more difficult and may result in constipation or irregular bowel. Soaking the skin in warm water is an excellent remedy for hemorrhoids as it reduces itching and swelling.
2. Sitz Bath for Relieving Pain
It is often recommended in post-partum care as a natural pain reliever.
3. Sitz Bath for Constipation
Constipation is a very common issue among people of all ages. Sitz bath is a safe and effective remedy that heals the skin, relieves your pain, increases blood circulation in the anal area, and promotes easy passing of the stool.
4. Sitz Bath for UTI
Infections of the genital area are not only painful but also very common, especially during and after pregnancy. The open wounds, swelling, cuts, and tears in the vagina can result in a moist environment that breeds bacteria. Sitz baths with added antibacterial ingredients like betadine can help in cleaning the area and preventing infections.
5. Sitz bath benefits in pregnancy
Good hygiene of the anogenital area is very important for everyone. However, it is more crucial and complicated for women because of their anatomy. Good hygiene can prevent infections and unpleasant odors.
A sitz bath is particularly beneficial in women after vaginal childbirth. It relieves the discomfort in the genital area and helps to reduce healing time after labor. Sitz bath can also soothe hemorrhoids, heal fissures or ease constipation which is very common in pregnant women
6. Sitz bath yeast infection
A Sitz bath can help ease the symptoms of a yeast infection. It helps in relieving itching, burning, and swelling. Adding Epsom salt, apple cider vinegar or boric acid can further boost its effect. However, don’t sit for more than 10 minutes at a time.
7. Sitz bath for abscess
Perianal abscess, an infection that appears as a tender red lump under the skin near the anus, can be sometimes treated with a sitz bath. Soaking the anogenital area in warm water 2 to 3 times a day can help in draining the pus and triggering a healing effect.
Sitz bath – how to use it?
A Sitz bath is soothing, relieving, and very easy to use. Here is how you can make your own DIY sitz bath –
- Fill a tub with warm water. (The tub for sitz bath is widely available in pharmacies and online sites.)
- Add a few drops of betadine or panchavalkala kwatha drops(or other medicine as recommended by your doctor) to the water.
- Sit in the bath and let the water cover your hips and buttocks.
- Stay for 10 to 15 minutes and wash the area with lukewarm water after stepping out.
- Dry the area using a soft towel and moisturize well.
- Sitz bath is safe for adults as well as children
Common Sitz Bath Ingredients
Sitz Bath is often taken with added medications, herbs, natural salts, or essential oils. Here are a few ingredients that are commonly used and are proven to be safe –
1. Epsom salt sitz bath
Epsom salts are soothing, anti-inflammatory, and can relieve pain. They are composed of magnesium sulfate which releases magnesium in the water and promotes the healing of your skin. It further acts as a detox and helps the body flush out toxins.
2. Epsom salt essential oil
A good organic essential oil like lavender can help in relieving pain and boost the healing effect on your skin. It can also soothe your inflammation and ease the discomfort of itchiness and irritation.
3. Witch Hazel for sitz bath
Witch hazel is an excellent natural remedy for treating hemorrhoids. It contains tannic acid which is proven to reduce swelling, bleeding, and other discomforts. You can add it to your sitz bath or simply spray it after evacuation.
Cautions
A sitz bath is generally safe and is not known to cause any side effects. It is a non-invasive treatment. Ideally, one can take two sitz baths a day, however, sometimes the doctor can recommend three or four times a day depending on the condition. However, overdoing it is not recommended.
What is a sitz bath, and how does it work?
A sitz bath is a warm water bath that involves immersing the pelvic area while sitting in a specialized basin or tub. The warm water helps increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation and healing.
Can I use regular bathwater for a sitz bath?
While regular bathwater can be used, it’s more effective to use warm water infused with specific additives like Epsom salt, baking soda, or herbal remedies like panchavalkala kashaya. These ingredients can enhance the therapeutic benefits of the sitz bath.
How long should I take a sitz bath?
To experience the maximum benefits, aim for a sitz bath duration of 10 to 20 minutes. However, always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations based on your condition.
Are sitz baths only beneficial for women?
No, sitz baths are not gender-specific. Both men and women can benefit from sitz baths, as they offer relief for a variety of pelvic conditions, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, postpartum discomfort, and prostate issues.
Can sitz baths help with postpartum healing?
Absolutely! Sitz baths are particularly beneficial for postpartum healing. They can soothe sore perineal muscles, reduce swelling, and promote the healing of episiotomy or tear stitches.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with sitz baths?
When performed correctly, sitz baths are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, it’s essential to avoid water that is too hot, as it may cause burns or aggravate existing conditions. Always follow the recommended guidelines and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
Can sitz baths alleviate hemorrhoid symptoms?
Yes, sitz baths are often recommended for managing hemorrhoid symptoms. The warm water helps reduce inflammation, relieve itching and irritation, and promote healing in the affected area.
Are there any additional benefits of sitz baths besides pain relief?
Indeed! Sitz baths offer various additional benefits, such as promoting relaxation, improving hygiene in the pelvic area, and aiding in the recovery of surgical wounds or infections.
How frequently should I take sitz baths?
The frequency of sitz baths depends on your specific condition and the advice of your doctor. Typically, they can be taken multiple times a day, such as after bowel movements or as recommended for postpartum care.
Can I enhance the effects of sitz baths with other therapies?
Certainly! Combining sitz baths with other therapies like topical creams, medications, or lifestyle changes can enhance their effectiveness. Always consult with your doctor for personalized recommendations.
Your takeaway!
Sitz bath is a safe, natural, and effective technique of anogenital care and anybody can try it to enjoy the benefits. However, it is a proven treatment method for those suffering from hemorrhoids, anal fissures, constipation, or post-partum recovery!
Also Read:
Triphala Churna for constipation
Constipation in Children and Infants
Home Remedies for constipation
4 comments
Thanks for the wonderful piece of work. Its really helpful to me
HAPPY TO KNOW. THANKS FOR READING
How often should one use a sitz bath with Epson Salt?
[…] a warm Sitz bath for 10-20 minutes a few times a day. Soak your bottom in warm water, particularly after a bowel […]