Can I take a warm water sitz bath for hemorrhoids?

Aug 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Jingxiang

Introduction

In general, hemorrhoids can be treated with warm water sitz baths, but it is important to pay attention to the method and duration of the sitz bath. In daily life, in addition to warm water sitz baths, one should also maintain good lifestyle habits, such as avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, maintaining regular bowel movements, and reducing the intake of spicy and irritating foods. These measures can promote the recovery from hemorrhoids and maintain the health of the anus and rectum from multiple aspects.

Generally, warm water sitz baths can be used for hemorrhoids, but attention should be paid to the method and duration of the bath. The details are as follows:

A warm water sitz bath is a common method for relieving symptoms of hemorrhoids and is suitable for most patients. Warm water can improve blood circulation around the anus, reduce congestion and swelling of local venous plexuses, and thereby alleviate discomfort such as pain and itching caused by hemorrhoids. At the same time, warm water sitz baths can clean the skin around the anus, reduce bacterial growth, lower the risk of infection, and aid in the recovery of hemorrhoids.

When taking a warm water sitz bath, the water temperature should be around 37°C. Each session should last 10–15 minutes, and 1–2 sessions per day are sufficient. After the bath, gently pat the anal area dry with a clean towel to keep the area dry. Patients with underlying conditions such as hypertension or heart disease should avoid bending over for extended periods during the bath to prevent dizziness or other discomfort.

In daily life, in addition to warm water sitz baths, it is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, such as avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, maintaining regular bowel movements, and reducing the intake of spicy and irritating foods. These measures can promote recovery from hemorrhoids from multiple aspects and help maintain rectal and anal health.

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Is it effective to apply tea seed oil on hemorrhoids?

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What should I do if my hemorrhoids bleed every time I have a bowel movement?

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