A sitz bath is a type of therapy done by sitting in warm, shallow water. It can help soothe pain, itching, and other symptoms in the anal and genital areas. It can also help keep these areas clean if you can't take a bath or shower. Sitz is from the German word sitzen, which means to sit.

What is an appropriate reason to use a sitz bath?

Why are sitz baths used? A sitz bath can reduce inflammation, improve hygiene and promote blood flow to the anogenital area. Common uses of the sitz bath include keeping the anus clean, reducing inflammation and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids, and healing perineal and vaginal lacerations after vaginal childbirth.

Do you put anything in a sitz bath?

A sitz bath is a warm soothing soak for your perineal or bottom area (area between your legs including your anus, vagina or scrotums). The soak is made up of water and baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) or salt. You can buy baking soda or salt in a drug or grocery store.