Sitz bath
A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that is used to promote the relaxation of the anal muscles, according to the Cleveland Clinic. It’s can also be used for everyday hygiene. But it’s ideal for healing the minor tears in anal tissue, and reducing pain, swelling and itching.
You can give yourself a sitz bath with a plastic kit that fits over your toilet. You can purchase a sitz kit at your local drug store. Alternatively, you can give yourself a sitz bath in your bathtub.
- Clean your bathtub very well. Healthline suggests using two tablespoons of bleach with a one-half gallon of water.
- Next, fill the tub with three to four inches of water. The water should be warm, but not hot.
- Soak your bottom for about 15 to 20 minutes. Bend your knees, or, if possible, dangle your legs over the sides of the tub to keep them out of the water altogether. Don’t rub or scrub the area — just soak.
