SITZ BATH

Definition

Asitz bathorhip bathis a bath in

which a person sits in water up to the
hips

Origin of term
The termsitz bathis derived from the
German wordSitzbad,[1]meaning a
bath (Bad) in which one sits (sitzen). A
sitz bath is a hip-bath, that is, a bath in
which a person sits covered with water
up to thehips.[1]Hip baths were
originally a European custom,[2]
although nowadays sitz baths are
used mainly for therapeutic purposes

Goal
used to relieve discomfort and pain in the
lower part of the body, for example, due
to
hemorrhoids(piles),
anal fissures,
rectalsurgery, an
episiotomy,
uterinecramps,
inflammatory bowel disease, and
infections of thebladder,prostateorvagina.

Warm bath vs Cool bath

Sitz baths may either be warm or
cool
Warm baths are recommended for
reducing the itching, pain and
discomfort associated with conditions
such as hemorrhoids and genital
problems.
Cool sitz baths are said to be helpful in
easingconstipation,inflammationand
vaginal discharge, and, in cases offecal
orurinary incontinence, in toning the

Preparation of warm bath

bathtub can be filled with 3 to 4
inches (7.6 to 10.2cm) of hot water
(about 110F (43C)), and sat in for
1520 minutes or until the water
cools down.

Risks
Sitz baths are considered very low
risk. Because hot baths cause blood
vessels to dilate, on rare occasions
some people can feel dizzy or have
palpitations(rapid or abnormal
heartbeat)