The Sitz Tub

After a C-section, your vagina may feel discomfort from labour and pain can stick around for the first two to six weeks after the operation.

A Sitz Bath can be beneficial to relieving vaginal and pelvic pain, healing the vagina and helping you relax. You should only take a Sitz Bath after your incision has healed and your doctor says it's okay. In most cases, the incision takes about three weeks to heal.

Some new mums take a Sitz Bath daily to cleanse their perineum area using Sitz Salts while others only take a Sitz Bath when they are experiencing pain or just want to relax.

If you have had stitches or a tear, experts recommend at least one Sitz Bath a day for the first two weeks.

1. Set the mood: You’ll be here for a while, so treat yourself. Prepare your bathroom so you can take your time and relax - music, candles, a nice book, a face mask.

2. Secure the tub: Place the Sitz Tub on the rim of your toilet and make sure it is firmly in place and won’t move around.

3. Fill the tub: Fill your tub with ~10cm of water. It should be nice and warm, but not hot enough to cause burns or discomfort, especially to tears. Pro tip:

4.Test the water on your wrist, where your skin is the thinnest and most sensitive.

5. Salt the tub: Mix the water with 100g of Sitz Salt for added relief and calming aromas.

6. Soak it up: Now for the relaxing part. Sit down and soak your perineum in the bath for 15 to 20 minutes, making sure your perineal area is fully covered.

7. Dry yourself: When you’re ready, slowly get up and dry yourself. Ideally, you air dry, but if that’s not possible, gently pat yourself down with a towel. Do not scrub or rub the perineum, as this may cause pain and irritation.

8. Clean and store away: And voila! Clean your tub and store away for next time.

Epsom Salt and Dead Sea Salt are the top picks for new mums. Epsom Salt has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to treat haemmorhoids, muscle cramps, itchy skin, and inflammation.

Dead Sea Salt contains 21 minerals which heal damaged and inflamed skin, retain skin moisture, stimulate the production of antioxidants to slow down damage from free radicals [3], protect cells involved in collagen production and provide antifungal, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties.

For an all-in-one solution that combines Epsom and Dead Sea Salt with Witch Hazel and natural essential oils including Lavender Oil to promote effective recovery, check out Kin’s Sitz Salts.

It’s normal to experience some pain and discomfort while you recover from delivery, and it’s a good idea to ask your doctor or midwife about what you can expect. Postpartum symptoms tend to improve each day, but if you find your symptoms are worsening, then give your doctor a call.