by Guest » 22 May 2013, 06:22
Sitz bath helps to clean the area very well.
Yes, as mentioned above, using a hand held shower is by far the best, and the most convenient method to clean. (my husband never allowed me to do that :-( )
If not, dab (avoid wiping) yourself with wet toilet paper (wet the paper under a warm water stream) after a BM. This advice came as a blessing from a Nurse Practitioner during my surgery. When you place that warm toilet paper in that area, you will find instant relief with the pain too. And do it only twice. Don't worry if you are not clean coz sitz will help to get rid of the gunk.
Now turn the faucet ON and fill the tub for a sitz bath. Adjust the heat. While the faucet is is still running, try sitting and relaxing. You will know that you are relaxed, when you would start peeing a little. (sorry I sound gross here, but had to mention this just to give you an idea if you are doing it right). Ok, remember... the faucet is ON.... so the force and movement of the water will clean the area without you touching it. You may turn off the faucet when your butt seems fully soaked. You will see all the gunk loosening and floating (fiber particles hahahha). Now drain that water. Fill it with another batch of fresh water and sit for a total of 15 minutes. For better results, you may use epsom salt (very little), during the last 10 minutes of sitz bathing.
I used Epsom for three reasons. 1) to relax the pelvic floor (doctor's advice) 2) to relax sphincter muscles since it has magnesium (doctor's advice) 3) to avoid any infection especially Urinary Tract Infection (friend's advice). Remember to wash this salt off once you are done as salt tends to dry the skin. Epsom will prevent itching or burning too. However, itching or burning will come back later during the day sometimes due to perspiration, or food acid coming in contact with the wound or for any other reasons unknown. You may use the dab trick again and that should clean the area and further give you some relief.
Last edited by Guest on 25 May 2013, 04:40, edited 1 time in total.