The postpartum sitz bath

Updated: Jun 1

Something that really helps my clients during postpartum recovery is a sitz bath. Have you heard of them before? I had not until I was preparing for my own postpartum experience. If, like me, your Googling has led you to believe they are complicated, you'll be happy to learn they really aren't at all. They're basically warm baths, just specifically for the perineal area.

After giving birth, things can get pretty uncomfortable down in that region. Soreness, swelling, hemorrhoids, tears, you name it. But these sitz baths? They're like a little slice of heaven. You just make a shallow bath with warm water – not too hot, but nice and cozy. And if you want, you can add some extras like Epsom salts or soothing herbs to really amp up the relaxation factor.

Then, you just lower yourself in and let the warm water work its magic. It's amazing how much it can help with pain relief and swelling. Plus, it's like a mini spa session right in your own bathroom.

Benefits of Sitz Baths for Postpartum Recovery:

Pain Relief—Warm water soothes sore muscles and alleviates pain in the perineal area. It also reduces inflammation and swelling, providing much-needed relief after childbirth.
Promotes Healing - Sitz baths encourage blood flow to the pelvic region, accelerating the healing process of injuries like tears and episiotomies.
Prevents Infections - Keeping the perineal area clean is important for preventing infections during the postpartum period. Sitz baths help to cleanse the area gently without irritation.
Relieves Discomfort - Many new mothers experience discomfort when urinating or having bowel movements after childbirth. Sitz baths can help to ease this discomfort by providing a soothing and cleansing experience.
Encourages Relaxation - Taking a sitz bath can be a relaxing and comforting ritual for new mothers, providing them with a moment of self-care and rejuvenation during a challenging time.

I recommend taking them a few times a day, especially right after giving birth. They really help with healing and keeping the area clean. The best part is that it's such a simple thing to do, but it makes a world of difference in how you feel.

How to Take a Sitz Bath:

Sitz Bath kits are available in most pharmacies, medical supply stores, and major retailers like Amazon and Walmart. However, I'm a big fan of using what you already have at home! Below, I explain the simplest way to take a sitz bath using a bathtub or shallow basin.

Prepare the Bath - Fill a clean bathtub or shallow basin (wide enough for your derriere) with a few inches of warm water. The water should be comfortably warm but not too hot to avoid causing discomfort.
Add Optional Ingredients - While warm water alone provides many benefits, you can also include things like Epsom salts, witch hazel, or brewed herbs (try chamomile or lavender). These can enhance the healing properties of the sitz bath.
Sit and Soak - Carefully lower yourself into the bath (don't be afraid to get help with this part!) and ensure that your perineal area is fully submerged. Relax and soak for around 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the warm water to work its magic.
Pat Dry - After the bath, gently pat the perineal area dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can irritate.
Repeat - Depending on your comfort level and the advice of your healthcare provider, you can take sitz baths multiple times each day to maximize the benefits.

While soaking, some moms like to listen to music or podcasts, watch a show, read, or just zone out. Whatever you do, this time is yours and yours alone.