Sitz Bath

A sitz bath is also known as a hip bath.

It is a hydrotherapy (water therapy) remedy where you bathe in just enough water to cover your lower abdomen, buttocks, and upper thighs.

With this remedy, you can use water at various temperatures:

Cooler temperatures help to get rid of congestion.

Warmer temperatures help to increase blood flow.

Sitz baths promote healing in the organs in your abdomen and pelvic area.

The best time to take this remedy is in the evening before bedtime. You can take a hip bath once or twice a week.

CAUTION:
Do not use this remedy if you have diabetes, loss of sensation in your nerves, arteriosclerosis, or Buergers disease.

If you’re not sure whether you should try a sitz bath, be sure to check with your medical doctor first!

Hot Sitz Bath

This remedy can help with hemorrhoids, sciatica, ovarian pain, uterine cramps, prostate pain, and insomnia.

What You Will Need:

  • washtub or basin
  • hot water
  • warm blanket
  • towels
  • washcloth
  • small bowl of cool water

Step 1: Place the washtub or basin inside your bathtub. Fill with hot water. The water temperature should be around 37°C/98.6°F.

Step 2: Sit in the washtub or basin with your legs out of the water. The only areas that should be under the water are your lower abdomen, buttocks, and upper thighs.

Step 3: Wrap yourself well with the warm blanket so that you stay nice and warm. Stay in the bath for about 8 - 10 minutes.

Step 4: Once your bath is over, give yourself a quick rinse with cold water.

Step 5: Dry your self completely. Take a rest for at least one hour.

Try to keep the room at a nice warm, comfortable temperature while you take your bath. If you get too hot while in the bath, try applying a cool washcloth to your forehead. Dip it in cool water and wring it out first.

Alternating Hot and Cold Sitz Bath

Alternating hot and cold hip baths are a great remedy for constipation, hemorrhoids, and pelvic congestion.

What You Will Need:

  • 2 washtub or basins
  • hot water
  • cold water
  • warm blanket
  • towels

Step 1: Place the washtubs or basins inside your bathtub. Fill one with hot water. The water temperature of the hot water should be around 37°C/98.6°F. Fill the other basin with cold water. If your bathtub is not big enough to hold both basins comfortably, then use the floor instead.

Step 2: Sit in the washtub or basin with hot water. Your legs should not be in the water. The only areas that should be under the water are your lower abdomen, buttocks, and upper thighs.

Step 3: Wrap yourself well with the warm blanket so that you stay nice and warm. Stay in the hot bath for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: After 5 minutes are up, sit in the basin with cold water for 1 minute.

Step 5: Alternate between hot and cold 2 more times, spending 5 minutes in the hot water, and 1 minute in the cold water. End with the cold water for 1 minute.

Step 6: Dry your self completely and rest for an hour.

While you are doing this remedy, be sure to keep the room at a comfortable, warm temperature.


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