The Best Thing To Do To Recover Postpartum

This is a lifesaver when you’re recovering postpartum.

A Sitz bath is a pool of water that you can sit in with only your hips and bottoms submerged. The name comes from the German word “zitzen” which means, you guessed it, to sit!

What are the benefits of using a Sitz bath for pain and relief after birth? Sitz baths offer a number of benefits during the postpartum period. They’re known to:

increase blood flow to the perineal area, which reduces swelling and inflammation and promotes healing.
relax the muscles in the perineum, which can relieve the pain of a tear or episiotomy.
soothe the soreness that comes from childbirth.
relieve the itching that often accompanies stitches.
keep things clean and hygienic while recovering.
ease the pain and itching from hemorrhoids, another common pregnancy and postpartum symptom that I talk about in another video.

Here’s how to set up and use a Sitz bath. When you need a little relief, fill a clean Sitz bath basin or tub with two to three inches of water. You want the level of the water to reach only your hips when you sit down. Use warm, not hot, water. Some women prefer cool water in this sits bath, especially since cool water tends to reduce swelling more effectively than warm water. I’ll add to that, that the warm water can help relax the muscles, but it’s your preference.

Then, you can add Epsom salts, witch Hazel, lavender or chamomile oil if you desire. Back in the day I only used Epsom salts. Some people say these little extras can offer even more relief. Soak once a day for up to 20 minutes.

If there are stitches in your perineum, too much soaking can cause the stitches to fall apart, so ask your practitioner for a recommendation. Before taking a sits bath, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel.

When you’re done, you’ll want to keep the area dry, especially if you have stitches. Avoid rubbing as this can increase soreness and may damage your stitches. Give it a try, you’ll see that sits baths go a long way in helping you recover postpartum.