How long after hemorrhoid surgery can I take a shower?
Aug 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
If the surgical wound is small and hemostasis is complete, with no obvious bleeding 2-3 days after surgery, a brief shower may be taken. Use warm water, avoid vigorous scrubbing around the anal area, and promptly dry the wound and disinfect it after washing to maintain local cleanliness and reduce the risk of infection. However, if the postoperative wound is large, there is still bleeding, or an open surgical approach was used, bathing should be postponed.
Generally speaking, the timing of bathing after hemorrhoid surgery should be determined according to the wound condition. Most patients can take a shower two to three days after surgery if the wound is healing well. However, if the wound has not healed or there is bleeding, bathing should be postponed. Detailed explanations are as follows:
If the surgical wound is small and hemostasis is complete, with no obvious bleeding two to three days post-operation, a brief shower may be taken. The water temperature should be moderate, and patients should avoid vigorously scrubbing the anal area. After washing, the wound should be promptly dried and disinfected to maintain local cleanliness and reduce the risk of infection.
However, if the wound is large, there is still oozing, or an open surgical technique was used, bathing should be delayed. Bathing too early may cause soaking of the wound, worsen bleeding, or even lead to infection. Patients should wait until the wound has mostly stopped bleeding and the doctor confirms it is safe to bathe. During this time, other parts of the body can be cleaned with warm water.
Post-operative bathing after hemorrhoid surgery should follow medical advice, with the timing and method determined by the healing status of the wound. If there is redness, swelling, or increased pain in the wound after bathing, patients should promptly inform the medical staff for appropriate management.
