While it is not a cure for any condition, you can use a sitz bath as an effective home remedy to relieve your or your child’s discomfort. Common reasons to use a sitz bath include:

Discomfort from constipation or diarrhea Recent surgery in the perineal area Pain from anal fissures Discomfort from hemorrhoids Itching and pain from genital herpes Vaginal tears following childbirth Rash or chafing in the perineal area

Sitz bath kits often include a plastic bag with a tube on the end that can be used to spray water into the affected area. Higher-priced kitz baths include a long hose that you can attach to a faucet for easy filling.

You can also use your bath tub if you’d prefer not to use a sitz bath kit.

Epsom salts Sea salt (non-iodized) Witch hazel Vinegar Baking soda

You can also add olive oil, essential oils, herbs, and aromatherapy fragrances. Just be sure to add products that won’t further irritate your skin.

Shower gel, bubble bath, or any type of soap: These products can dry out damaged skin. Any additions that are not meant to be put on the skin you are soaking: These may make your symptoms worse or dry out skin that’s already chafed.

If you’re using a bathtub, lower yourself in the way you would an ordinary bath, but bend your knees when you sit to take some of the pressure off the perineum. You can prop your feet on the tub’s edge to make yourself more comfortable.

Adjust the water temperature to your liking, then sit back and relax.

Wash your hands thoroughly with warm soapy water. If you used a portable sitz bath, wash it in hot water with a mild detergent. Don’t put it in a dishwasher. If you used your bathtub, rinse it out. Then, clean it as you usually do.

Summary

A sitz bath can help soothe conditions affecting the area between the anus and genitals.

You can use your bathtub for a sitz bath or a portable basin that sits on top of your toilet seat. You can also put soothing add-ins to the warm water, like Epsom salt, but avoid any productions (like bubble baths) that can irritate or dry out your skin.

You can soak in a sitz bath for about 15 to 20 minutes. When you’re done, let the area air dry and add any medicated skincare, if needed.