What are the benefits of soaking hemorrhoids in a sitz (sitz) bath?

From the Guidelines

Soaking hemorrhoids in a sitz bath is highly recommended for symptom relief. To do this, fill a clean bathtub or sitz bath basin with warm (not hot) water, about 3-4 inches deep or enough to cover your buttocks and hips. Sit in the bath for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times daily, especially after bowel movements. You can enhance the soothing effect by adding 1-2 tablespoons of Epsom salt to the water. After the bath, gently pat the area dry with a soft towel—avoid rubbing. For best results, continue this routine for several days until symptoms improve. Sitz baths work by increasing blood flow to the area, which promotes healing, reduces inflammation, and cleanses the perineal area. The warm water helps relax sphincter muscles and provides significant pain relief. This treatment is particularly effective when combined with other hemorrhoid treatments like over-the-counter creams containing hydrocortisone or witch hazel pads. Remember to maintain proper hygiene and stay hydrated to prevent constipation, which can worsen hemorrhoids. Although the provided evidence does not directly discuss sitz baths, the treatment is widely accepted and recommended by medical professionals, as seen in the example answer. The evidence provided 1, 2, 3 focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and pathophysiology of hemorrhoids, but does not mention sitz baths as a treatment option. However, based on general medical knowledge and the example answer, sitz baths are a common and effective treatment for hemorrhoid symptoms.

Some key points to consider when soaking hemorrhoids in a sitz bath include:

• Using warm, not hot, water to avoid discomfort and promote relaxation
• Adding Epsom salt to enhance the soothing effect
• Patting the area dry with a soft towel to avoid irritation
• Combining sitz baths with other treatments, such as over-the-counter creams or ointments, for optimal symptom relief
• Maintaining proper hygiene and staying hydrated to prevent constipation and worsen hemorrhoids.

It is essential to note that while sitz baths can provide symptom relief, they may not address the underlying cause of the hemorrhoids. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to consult a medical professional for further evaluation and treatment. The evidence provided 1, 2, 3 highlights the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment of hemorrhoids, and sitz baths can be a useful adjunct to other treatments.

From the Research

Soaking Hemorrhoids in Sitz Bath

• Soaking hemorrhoids in a sitz bath has been studied as a method for reducing pain and promoting healing after hemorrhoidectomy 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
• A study published in 2024 found that early warm water sitz bath was a safe and effective strategy to decrease post-haemorrhoidectomy pain, but not urinary retention 4.
• Another study from 2009 compared the effects of warm water spray and sitz bath in the post-hemorrhoidectomy period, and found that the water spray method could provide a safe and reliable alternative to the sitz bath for post-hemorrhoidectomy care 5.
• A prospective comparative study published in 2018 found that sitz bath was more effective than ano-rectal cream in achieving complete healing for hemorrhoids in pregnant Saudi Arabian females 6.
• A randomized, controlled trial published in 2025 compared the use of electronic bidet with a lower-force water flow and warm sitz baths for postoperative management after hemorrhoidectomy, and found that the VAS score for anal pain 7 days posthemorrhoidectomy did not differ between the two groups 7.
• A retrospective study published in 2024 found that Myrrh sitz baths appeared more effective than standard wound care in enhancing healing after hemorrhoidectomy, but had a higher complication rate 8.

Key Findings

• Sitz baths can be an effective method for reducing pain and promoting healing after hemorrhoidectomy.
• The use of sitz baths has been compared to other methods, such as warm water spray and electronic bidet, with varying results.
• Myrrh sitz baths may be more effective than standard wound care in enhancing healing after hemorrhoidectomy, but require cautious usage due to a higher complication rate.

Study Results

• A study published in 2024 found a statistically significant lower pain score in the group that received early warm water sitz bath compared to the control group (B = -0.81, 95 % CI: -1.44 to -0.18) 4.
• A study from 2009 found that the water spray group reported significantly greater convenience (p < 0.05) and higher overall satisfaction (p < 0.05) compared with the sitz bath group 5.
• A prospective comparative study published in 2018 found that complete healing was achieved in all patients (100%) in the sitz bath group, compared to 84.8% in the cream group (p-value < 0.05) 6.