What Is A Sitz Bath?

Taking A Sitz Bath

Depending on the patient's overall health and the condition to be treated, it may be easiest to take a sitz bath in the bathtub. Patients with mobility issues or significant pain might prefer to use a device that attaches to the toilet for taking a sitz bath; these can be purchased at drugstores. Alternatively, a plastic basin can be used. It is important to have a bathtub thermometer available to check the water temperature before beginning the bath. Ideally, the temperature for a warm water bath should be between ninety-four to ninety-eight degrees Fahrenheit. Patients should sit in the sitz bath for fifteen to twenty minutes, and the water temperature should be checked several times during the bath. It might be necessary to add more water to keep the bath at the correct temperature. When a bathtub is used for the sitz bath, patients should use mats in the bathtub to prevent slipping, and grab bars might need to be installed before the bath to help the patient safely enter and exit the tub. Mats should be placed outside of the bathtub to prevent slips as well, and patients should have clean clothes available to change into after the bath. In all cases, a sitz bath should only be used when someone else is available at home to assist the patient if needed. The heat from the bathwater might cause some patients to feel weak and lightheaded. If this occurs, the patient should call for help to get out of the bathtub, as trying to stand and exit the bathtub alone could result in a fall.

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