What Is A Sitz Bath?

Aftercare

After taking a sitz bath, patients should let the treated area air dry if possible. Some individuals may prefer to gently pat the area dry with a clean towel. If open sores or painful areas are present, drying the area with a thin cloth might be less painful than using a thick towel. The application of moisturizer after the sitz bath is not usually necessary, and moisturizers should not be applied to the area if an infection is present. Instead, doctors recommend applying any prescribed medicated ointments during the time immediately after the sitz bath to help increase absorption. For example, medicated creams for hemorrhoids, rashes, or anal fissures can all be applied immediately after the sitz bath. The patient should wash their hands after applying the ointment, and changing into clean clothes is recommended. If a portable sitz bath has been used, it should be washed by hand in hot, soapy water; a dishwasher should not be used.