Sitz baths: what are they, what are they for and how to do them

Sitz baths are a type of treatment that aims to alleviate the symptoms of diseases affecting the genital region, such as herpes virus infection, candidiasis or vaginal infection, for example. 

This procedure serves to complement the treatment recommended by the doctor and can be performed with essential oils, baking soda or vinegar, for example, according to the purpose of the bath. 

Sitz baths: what are they, what are they for and how to do them

What they are for

Sitz baths are intended to complement the treatment indicated by the doctor for diseases affecting the intimate region of men and women, such as bacterial vaginosis, genital herpes, candidiasis or burning in the vagina, for example, since they help clean the area, reduce the risk of infection and increase blood circulation in the region, favoring healing. 

Likewise, they can also be recommended to alleviate the symptoms and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids or diarrhea, or may be equally indicated to reduce symptoms after surgery in the genital or perineal region (perineum).

How to do sitz baths

Sitz baths are simple and consist of preparing a large, clean basin or container with the ingredients for the bath and remain seated for 15 to 30 minutes. Apart from the basin, it is also possible to perform the sitz bath in a bidet or a soaking tub, for example. 

Generally, it is advised that they be performed 2 to 3 times a week so that the benefits can be reaped, and it is recommended that then the bath be carried out 1 to 2 times a week to prevent the symptoms from recurring. 

It is essential to keep in mind that the sitz bath does not replace the treatment recommended by the doctor, so it is suggested to consult a gynecologist or a urologist so that the most appropriate treatment for the situation can be indicated and the progression of the disease can be avoided. 

The ingredients used in this procedure may vary according to the objective of the treatment, being able to be performed with sodium bicarbonate, vinegar or essential oils. 

See below some options for sitz baths:

1. For hemorrhoids

One option of sitz bath for hemorrhoids is the one made with arnica, as this is a medicinal plant that has anti-inflammatory, sedative and healing properties, so it helps to relieve the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. 

Thus, for this sitz bath it is enough to mix 20 g of arnica tea and 3 liters of hot water in a basin, and then sit on the water for 15 minutes. 

Learn about other sitz bath options for hemorrhoids. 

2. For vaginal burning

A good sitz bath for vaginal burning caused by candidiasis is made with Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil, popularly known as narrowleaf tea tree, as it possesses antifungal properties that fight the causative agent of the disease. Learn about all the benefits of melaleuca oil. 

To prepare this sitz bath, simply place 1 liter of warm water and 5 drops of melaleuca essential oil in a basin, sit inside for 20 to 30 minutes and perform a vaginal wash with this same water. Likewise, 1 drop of melaleuca essential oil can be added to a sanitary napkin and used throughout the day. 

This sitz bath can also be used in case of itching in the vagina or white vaginal discharge, curdled milk type, as these are also symptoms of candidiasis. 

3. For urinary infection

An excellent sitz bath for urinary infection is the one made with vinegar, as this ingredient is able to alter the pH of the intimate area and decrease the ability of bacteria to adhere to the urethra and bladder. 

To elaborate this bath, place 3 liters of warm water in a basin and add 2 tablespoons of vinegar, mix well and then sit without intimate clothes for at least 20 minutes. 

Learn about other sitz bath options for urinary tract infection. 

4. For genital herpes

An excellent sitz bath for genital herpes is one made with baking soda, as it can aid in the healing of the lesions, decreasing the risk of disease transmission and discomfort caused by the lesions. 

To prepare the bath for genital herpes, 600 ml of water should be placed in the bath. warm in a basin, add a tablespoon of baking soda, mix well and sit inside for 15 minutes, 2 to 3 times a day. 

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