MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Sitz bath

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Sitz bath

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Illustrations	Definition

Illustrations

Episiotomy aftercare

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A sitz bath is a warm water bath used for healing or cleansing purposes. You sit in the bath. The water covers only the hips and buttocks. The water may contain medication.

Sitz baths are often used to relieve pain, itching, or muscle spasms. The baths are often recommended to relieve pain and speed healing after hemorrhoid surgery or an episiotomy.

Update Date: 2/23/2009

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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