Healthcare professionals have recommended patients take a sitz bath for hemorrhoids at least 3 and up to several times per day.  The reason behind this recommendation is hydrotherapy or “water therapy” which is a holistic  approach to healing and pain relief. Often doctors will suggest a warm to hot water sitz bath with salt or baking soda added to promote the healing process. There are also herbal mixtures that are sometimes added.

Since taking a sitz bath for hemorrhoids must be done frequently throughout the day, many patients opt to buy a portable sitz bath made of plastic. These portable baths are normally a plastic or inflatable plastic basin that fits into the rim of the toilet. Rather than having to fill and entire bathtub 3 to 4 inches several times daily, the small plastic basin saves both time and water. It also is easy to clean and can be quickly made ready for the next treatment.

Hemorrhoid sufferers often experience discomfort, pain, itching and swelling. Soaking the rectal area for 10 to 15 minutes a few times daily helps to relieve the discomfort and other conditions that come with hemorrhoids.  If your doctor has suggested creams or other pain relievers along with sitz treatments, be sure to follow his or her instructions and check with him or her before adding any ingredients to the tub as some can irritate your symptoms rather than relieve them.

To purchase a portable sitz bath for hemorrhoids, check online for the biggest selection and best prices. Often they can be found for as low as $10 for the basic types and up to around $20 for the models that include a plastic bag and tube for flowing water. The baths are normally vented so water can flow through and spill into the toilet. If your are an expectant mother, it’s a good idea to order one before delivering your baby so that it will be available for use for the healing and discomfort and pain relief of post childbirth.