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Hemorrhoids
How to Use a TUCKS® Medicated Cooling Pad to Relieve Hemorrhoid Pain Download Article Learn exactly how to use a TUCKS® pad to fix hemorroid discomfort Co-authored by Chris M. Matsko, MD
Last Updated: February 15, 2026 Approved
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Preparing to Use a TUCKS® Pad
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Using a TUCKS® Pad
|
Using Other Pain Relief Methods
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Expert Q&A
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This article was co-authored by Chris M. Matsko, MD. Dr. Chris M. Matsko is a retired physician based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of medical research experience, Dr. Matsko was awarded the Pittsburgh Cornell University Leadership Award for Excellence. He holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Cornell University and an MD from the Temple University School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Matsko earned a Research Writing Certification from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) in 2016 and a Medical Writing & Editing Certification from the University of Chicago in 2017. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 242,416 times.
Traditional treatments for hemorrhoids include using an astringent to help reduce swelling. Reducing swelling can help with pain and discomfort as well. The main ingredient in TUCKS® medicated pads is witch hazel, which is an herbal astringent. Before using TUCKS®, you will need to clean the area using a Sitz bath or washcloth. Hemorrhoids should improve within a few days to a week. If not, then make sure to call your doctor.
How to Use a TUCKS® Pad: Quick Steps
Take a warm Sitz bath with Epsom salts.
Gently wipe the affected area with a TUCKS® pad.
Dispose of the used TUCKS® pad.
Wash your hands.
Repeat the above steps up to 5 times per day (for 6 applications per day total).
Use with other pain relief methods, such as hydrocortisone cream or ibuprofen.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 3:
Preparing to Use a TUCKS® Pad
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1 Prepare a bath. Before you use a TUCKS® pad, you will need to ensure that the anal area is clean. The best way to clean the anal area is to take a warm Sitz bath. Sitz baths only require a few inches of water to soak the anus but you can take a full bath if you prefer. If you prefer the traditional Sitz bath, just fill the tub with a few inches of water.[1]X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical SchoolHarvard Medical School's Educational Site for the Public Go to source
You can also buy a Sitz bath at a pharmacy or medical supply store. These are small basins that you can attach to your toilet seat and use to wash your anal area.[2]X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical SchoolHarvard Medical School's Educational Site for the Public Go to source
2 Add Epsom salts to the water. Add about one cup of Epsom salts to a full bathtub or two to three tablespoons of Epsom salts for a few inches of water in the tub. Keep the water warm, but not too hot. Repeat the bath two times per day.[3]X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical SchoolHarvard Medical School's Educational Site for the Public Go to source Advertisement
3 Use a washcloth if you cannot take a bath. If you cannot take a bath, get a clean, cotton washcloth and soak it in warm water. Apply the compress for about 10–15 minutes, directly on the hemorrhoid three times per day or before each time you use a TUCKS® pad.
4 Dry off your anus. Using a clean cotton towel, dry your anus well.[4]X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical SchoolHarvard Medical School's Educational Site for the Public Go to source Make sure that you pat the area dry. Do not rub the area because this may make the hemorrhoid worse.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 3:
Using a TUCKS® Pad
Download Article
1 Read the package instructions. Instructions for use may vary by brand and product type, so it is important to read and follow the instructions. Make sure that you read the package instructions before using TUCKS® and use the product as instructed.
2 Wipe the anal area with a TUCKS® pad. After you have cleaned your anal area using a Sitz bath or washcloth, use one TUCKS® medicated pad to gently wipe the anal area. It is important to be gentle as you wipe the hemorrhoid.[5]XResearch source
Do not rub the area too hard or you may irritate the hemorrhoid.
Do not push the wipe into the rectum. Only use the pad on the outer part of your anus and anal region.
3 Dispose of the used TUCKS® pad. After you have finished using the pad, throw it in the garbage or flush it down the toilet. TUCKS® pads are biodegradable, so it is okay to flush them down the toilet.
Do not reuse the pads.
4 Repeat the process six times daily. For best results, you should use TUCKS® pads six times per day. If you have another bowel movement during the day, repeat the cleaning and medicating process. Remember to clean the area gently.
5 Observe the area for signs of improvement. By keeping the area clean and using TUCKS® pads, you should notice some improvement to your hemorrhoids within a few days days. If there is no improvement, then call your physician.
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 3:
Using Other Pain Relief Methods
Download Article
1 Apply some 1% hydrocortisone cream to help relieve itching. To deal with itchiness in your anal region, apply some 1% hydrocortisone cream or Preparation H™. Apply a small amount of cream to the outside of your anus. Make sure that you read the package instructions before using.[6]XResearch source
2 Use an ice pack. Ice packs can help reduce the swelling associated with hemorrhoids. Just make sure that you do not use them for too long. Limit your use to five to 10 minutes at most each time.[7]X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical SchoolHarvard Medical School's Educational Site for the Public Go to source
To ice a hemorrhoid, wrap an ice pack in a paper towel and hold it on the anal area for five to 10 minutes.
3 Wear cotton underwear. Wearing cotton underwear may help to ease discomfort by reducing moisture in your anal region. Avoid wearing any synthetic fabrics as these tend to accumulate more moisture.[8]XResearch source
4 Lie on your side. You may need to avoid sitting or lying on your backside until the hemorrhoid heals. Try laying on your side at night and do not sit for too long. It may also help you to sit on a doughnut pillow or even a regular cushion.[9]XResearch source
5 Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. If the pain is distracting, then taking some acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help. Follow the package instructions and do not exceed the recommended dosage. If the pain is still present after taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, then call your doctor.[10]XResearch source
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Expert Q&A
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Question What if a medicated pad is in the anal cavity and stays there? Chris M. Matsko, MD Family Medicine Physician Dr. Chris M. Matsko is a retired physician based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of medical research experience, Dr. Matsko was awarded the Pittsburgh Cornell University Leadership Award for Excellence. He holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Cornell University and an MD from the Temple University School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Matsko earned a Research Writing Certification from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) in 2016 and a Medical Writing & Editing Certification from the University of Chicago in 2017. Chris M. Matsko, MD Family Medicine Physician Expert Answer Never leave a medicated pad in the anal canal. If it gets stuck there then seek the attention of a medical professional immediately. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 13
Question Do you leave the pad in your anal area for any period of time? Chris M. Matsko, MD Family Medicine Physician Dr. Chris M. Matsko is a retired physician based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of medical research experience, Dr. Matsko was awarded the Pittsburgh Cornell University Leadership Award for Excellence. He holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Cornell University and an MD from the Temple University School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Matsko earned a Research Writing Certification from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) in 2016 and a Medical Writing & Editing Certification from the University of Chicago in 2017. Chris M. Matsko, MD Family Medicine Physician Expert Answer No, you just wipe the area with the pad and then dispose of the pad in the trash. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 8 Helpful 21
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Co-authored by: Chris M. Matsko, MD Family Medicine Physician This article was co-authored by Chris M. Matsko, MD. Dr. Chris M. Matsko is a retired physician based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of medical research experience, Dr. Matsko was awarded the Pittsburgh Cornell University Leadership Award for Excellence. He holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Cornell University and an MD from the Temple University School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Matsko earned a Research Writing Certification from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) in 2016 and a Medical Writing & Editing Certification from the University of Chicago in 2017. This article has been viewed 242,416 times. 8 votes - 67% Co-authors: 7Updated: February 15, 2026 Views: 242,416 Categories: Hemorrhoids
Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
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Article SummaryX
To use Tucks pads for hemorrhoids, first clean your backside. Use a Sitz bath or hold a clean, warm washcloth to your hemorrhoid for 10-15 minutes. After you’ve dried yourself, gently wipe the area again with a Tucks pad. Avoid rubbing too hard so you don’t irritate your hemorrhoid. You can dispose of your Tucks pad in the trash or flush it down the toilet. For best results, use Tucks pads six times a day. Whenever you have a bowel movement, repeat the process afterwards. For more tips from our Medical co-author, including how to reduce swelling with an ice pack, read on.Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Reader Success Stories
E. F.
Jul 7, 2020
"To be honest, after reading the instructions on the Tucks package and watching some YouTube videos, I was still not sure how to apply the Tucks pads. I really appreciated this article explaining and illustrating everything clearly!"..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Chris M. Matsko, MD Family Medicine Physician 8 votes - 67% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 7Updated: February 15, 2026 Views: 242,416
E. F.
Jul 7, 2020
"To be honest, after reading the instructions on the Tucks package and watching some YouTube videos, I was still not sure how to apply the Tucks pads. I really appreciated this article explaining and illustrating everything clearly!"..." more
Anonymous
Oct 2, 2016
"Liked that several options were suggested to be used in conjunction with or independent of the product."
Anonymous
Jun 9, 2017
"Ease of understanding how to use the product." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
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Download Article Learn exactly how to use a TUCKS® pad to fix hemorroid discomfort Co-authored by Chris M. Matsko, MD 
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Co-authored by: Chris M. Matsko, MD Family Medicine Physician This article was co-authored by Chris M. Matsko, MD. Dr. Chris M. Matsko is a retired physician based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of medical research experience, Dr. Matsko was awarded the Pittsburgh Cornell University Leadership Award for Excellence. He holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Cornell University and an MD from the Temple University School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Matsko earned a Research Writing Certification from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) in 2016 and a Medical Writing & Editing Certification from the University of Chicago in 2017. This article has been viewed 242,416 times. 8 votes - 67% Co-authors: 7 Updated: February 15, 2026 Views: 242,416 Categories: Hemorrhoids 
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1 Prepare a bath. Before you use a TUCKS® pad, you will need to ensure that the anal area is clean. The best way to clean the anal area is to take a warm Sitz bath. Sitz baths only require a few inches of water to soak the anus but you can take a full bath if you prefer. If you prefer the traditional Sitz bath, just fill the tub with a few inches of water.[1] 
2 Add Epsom salts to the water. Add about one cup of Epsom salts to a full bathtub or two to three tablespoons of Epsom salts for a few inches of water in the tub. Keep the water warm, but not too hot. Repeat the bath two times per day.[3] Advertisement 
3 Use a washcloth if you cannot take a bath. If you cannot take a bath, get a clean, cotton washcloth and soak it in warm water. Apply the compress for about 10–15 minutes, directly on the hemorrhoid three times per day or before each time you use a TUCKS® pad. 
4 Dry off your anus. Using a clean cotton towel, dry your anus well.[4] Make sure that you pat the area dry. Do not rub the area because this may make the hemorrhoid worse. Advertisement 
1 Read the package instructions. Instructions for use may vary by brand and product type, so it is important to read and follow the instructions. Make sure that you read the package instructions before using TUCKS® and use the product as instructed. 
2 Wipe the anal area with a TUCKS® pad. After you have cleaned your anal area using a Sitz bath or washcloth, use one TUCKS® medicated pad to gently wipe the anal area. It is important to be gentle as you wipe the hemorrhoid.[5] 
3 Dispose of the used TUCKS® pad. After you have finished using the pad, throw it in the garbage or flush it down the toilet. TUCKS® pads are biodegradable, so it is okay to flush them down the toilet. 
4 Repeat the process six times daily. For best results, you should use TUCKS® pads six times per day. If you have another bowel movement during the day, repeat the cleaning and medicating process. Remember to clean the area gently. 
5 Observe the area for signs of improvement. By keeping the area clean and using TUCKS® pads, you should notice some improvement to your hemorrhoids within a few days days. If there is no improvement, then call your physician. Advertisement 
1 Apply some 1% hydrocortisone cream to help relieve itching. To deal with itchiness in your anal region, apply some 1% hydrocortisone cream or Preparation H™. Apply a small amount of cream to the outside of your anus. Make sure that you read the package instructions before using.[6] 
2 Use an ice pack. Ice packs can help reduce the swelling associated with hemorrhoids. Just make sure that you do not use them for too long. Limit your use to five to 10 minutes at most each time.[7] 
3 Wear cotton underwear. Wearing cotton underwear may help to ease discomfort by reducing moisture in your anal region. Avoid wearing any synthetic fabrics as these tend to accumulate more moisture.[8] 
4 Lie on your side. You may need to avoid sitting or lying on your backside until the hemorrhoid heals. Try laying on your side at night and do not sit for too long. It may also help you to sit on a doughnut pillow or even a regular cushion.[9] 
5 Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. If the pain is distracting, then taking some acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help. Follow the package instructions and do not exceed the recommended dosage. If the pain is still present after taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, then call your doctor.[10] Advertisement 
Chris M. Matsko, MD Family Medicine Physician Dr. Chris M. Matsko is a retired physician based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of medical research experience, Dr. Matsko was awarded the Pittsburgh Cornell University Leadership Award for Excellence. He holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Cornell University and an MD from the Temple University School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Matsko earned a Research Writing Certification from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) in 2016 and a Medical Writing & Editing Certification from the University of Chicago in 2017.