A postpartum sitz bath is a great tool for self-care after delivery, especially within those first couple of weeks.
A sitz bath can be used for a variety of medical conditions, but it’s especially useful after childbirth to help heal and cleanse the area around the perineum.
The postpartum period is something that is near to my heart, because it’s such a raw time for new mothers. It’s a time of healing, bonding, learning – as well as an emotional rollercoaster. I think it’s important to prepare for this postpartum chapter while pregnant, so this post is the beginning my “preparing for baby” series.
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What is a Postpartum Sitz Bath?
During a postpartum sitz bath, you soak in 2-3″ of warm water. You can add ingredients like epsom salt, essential oils and herbal water (with herbs strained).
The warm water speeds up the healing process, because warm water boosts blood flow to the area.
The sitz bath also soothes soreness and irritation due to the water relaxing muscles in combination with the gentle herbs and essential oils.
Lastly, a sitz bath will help you cleanse your perineum.
How do I Take a Postpartum Sitz Bath?
Before we begin, always speak with your doctor about any questions you may have regarding a sitz bath.
1. Decide What Type of Bath You’ll Take
We know that taking full baths right after delivery isn’t suggested, so you’ll just want to soak in 2-3 inches of warm water so that your private parts are covered.
You can do this in a bathtub or you can go with a wash basin that fits over your toilet. I prefer the wash basin, because it’s easier to clean postpartum and I find it hard to get in and out of a tub right after delivery as well.
2. Add What You Want into Your Bath
Some people just opt for a sitz bath with a bit of epsom salts in it, but you can really boost soothing by also adding herbal water or essential oils.
I recommend getting a pre-made sitz bath soak to make your life easier and take the guesswork out of what type of herbs to use as well as their ratios.
3. Soak for 15-20 minutes
Soak in the sitz bath for up to 15-20 minutes. Afterward you’ll want to air dry a bit before getting dressed.
Other Ways to Use Sitz Bath Soak
You can also mix a bit of your sitz bath soak with water and add them to a peri bottle (a postpartum must-have) to use after you use the bathroom.
You can also add this solution to a DIY “padsicle” and freeze for a soothing ice pack.
Are you planning on using a postpartum sitz bath? If you have in the past did you find them helpful?
I hope you find comfort in the “preparing for baby” series. Preparing for everything you and baby will need before delivery is a great way to put your mind at ease.
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