A sitz bath is a common form of hydrotherapy that may be used to relieve benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms. A sitz bath helps relax the smooth muscle in the prostate, easing the constriction of the urethra and bladder neck and increasing blood circulation to the pelvic region.
A sitz bath may involve hot or cold water or a combination of the two. The hot bath seems to be most useful for BPH. It involves soaking for 3 to 10 minutes in water that is about 105 degrees F to 115 degrees F, and then sponging the pelvic area with cool water. The cold bath involves sitting for 3 minutes in a tub of hot water (105 degrees F to 115 degrees F) followed by 30 seconds in a second tub of cool water (55 degrees F to 85 degrees F). (The level of the hot water in the first tub should always be about 1 inch higher than the water level in the second tub.) Repeat this procedure three times. The last bath should always be with cool water.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.