International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nursing

POSTPARTUM HEALING: EVALUATING THE EFFICACY OF SITZ BATH IN ALLEVIATING EPISIOTOMY PAIN AMONG NEW MOTHERS

Deepa N1*, Leena Rose J2, Getsry Geetha R

depu09ms@gmail.com

Postpartum, Episiotomy, Sitz bath, Pain relief, Postnatal care

Childbirth, hailed as a divine honor bestowed upon women, marks a profound transition accompanied by physical and psychological changes during the postnatal period, known as puerperium. Among the challenges faced by postpartum women, episiotomy—a surgical incision to facilitate childbirth—poses a significant concern for healthcare providers. Ensuring comfort, pain relief, and infection prevention are paramount during this critical phase. This quasi-experimental study aimed to assess the effectiveness of sitz bath—a therapeutic technique involving immersion of the perineal area—in managing episiotomy wound pain among postnatal mothers. 60 participants meeting inclusion criteria were divided into experimental (n=30) and control (n=30) groups via non-probability purposive sampling. Pre-test pain levels were measured using visual analogue scales for both groups. Subsequently, sitz bath education was administered to the experimental group, with pre and post-test pain assessments conducted for both cohorts. Results revealed that the experimental group exhibited a significant decrease in pain levels post-intervention, while the control group showed a comparatively modest reduction. Moreover, a closer examination revealed a stronger impact of sitz bath on pain reduction in the experimental group, with a paired mean value difference having high statistical significance (*p<0.001). Demographic variables such as age and pregnancy status exhibited significant associations with post-test pain levels in the experimental group. In conclusion, the findings underscore the efficacy of sitz bath in mitigating episiotomy-related pain among postnatal mothers. This study not only highlights the therapeutic potential of sitz bath but also emphasizes the importance of tailored interventions in promoting postpartum healing and wellbeing.