First published: 15 January 2023 @ 6:00 pm
Nocturnal enuresis or bedwetting issues can be quite embarrassing and frustrating for children. However, it is actually a common problem as 15 percent of children under the age of 5 experience bedwetting.
There are two types of bedwetting: primary and secondary. Primary bedwetting is when a child has never been able to control their bladder for six months in row or even longer.
Meanwhile, secondary bedwetting is when a child has had occasional wetting episodes after they have developed bladder control. This is mainly due to medical issues.
The causes of bedwetting vary, but there are some common tips that can help children deal with the problem.
What are the Causes of Bedwetting?
It is normal for children to wet the bed at some point in their lives. However, there are a few things that can increase the chances of a child wetting the bed. Some of these include:
Genetics
Family history or genetic component can play a strong role in bedwetting. Kids whose parents are not enuretic have only a 15% bedwetting incidence. When one or both parents were bedwetters, the rates are jumping to 44% and 77% respectively.
Emotional Problems
Stressful events like moving, a change in routine, or even just a new person in the family can be a bedwetting trigger to a child. This is because nocturnal enuresis is often an expression of stress.
Medical Conditions
There are a number of medical conditions that can lead to bedwetting such as urinary tract infections (UTI), diabetes, and a lack of bladder control. In this case, the child will need to see a doctor in order to find out the cause and to get treatment.
Constipation
Urine is full of nitrogen and other elements which can make it difficult for the bladder to contract. When this happens, the child may find it difficult to control their bladder due to constipation. As a result, they may wet the bed.
Overactive Bladder
Overactive bladder is when the bladder doesn’t have enough control over when and how much urine it releases. Children with this condition may find it difficult to stop themselves from going to the bathroom even when they are not drinking or eating.
5 Easy Steps to Deal With Bedwetting
1. Limit Drinks Before Bed
Being able to drink a glass of milk or water at bedtime is common for many children, but it is often the reason that they are repeatedly wetting themselves.
So, by limiting drinks an hour before bedtime, your child will be less likely to have an accident. It may also help a lot if you take them for a quick bathroom visit just prior to sleep.
Just make sure they drink plenty of fluids during the day so that they are not dehydrated.
2. Start Bladder Training
The process of bladder training is often recommended for children who have primary bedwetting. The goal of this is to help the child learn how to control their bladder patterns and stop wetting the bed.
The training will involve gradually increasing the time that the child has to wait before they can go to the bathroom.
In addition, they will need to learn how to relax their bladder and resist the urge to go to the bathroom.
3. Use a Bedwetting Alarm
The bedwetting alarm will alert you immediately when your child starts to urinate.
If it is suspected that your little one is having a bladder attack, the alarm will sound a loud noise to alert you that they are getting up.
It is so beneficial to set this alarm for children who are deep sleepers. Once they get used to it, the biological clock will help them get up on time when they need to go to the bathroom.
4. Consult a Doctor
Even though bedwetting is a common problem, not all children will respond to the tips mentioned above.
In this case, it is best to consult a doctor. They will be able to rule out any medical conditions and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Uncommon causes, such as overactive bladder, may need special attention, and any underlying medical issues will need to be addressed.
5. Invest in a Waterproof Mattress
If your child is still wetting the bed after following the above tips, it may be time to invest in a waterproof mattress.
As the bladder is located below the waist, a waterproof mattress can help to prevent urine leaks.
Parents won’t have to worry about waking up to a wet bed or having to change their child’s sheets multiple times a day.
Final Thoughts
Health condition, emotional problems, and other medical conditions can all lead to bedwetting in children.
However, there are some things that you can do to help your child cope and prevent wetting the bed.
By following the tips mentioned above, you can help your child to feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin.
So, don’t be afraid to talk to your child about their bedwetting and see what can be done to help them.
If you like this article, please share it with your friends and family, and make sure to visit our blog, Mature Parent, for more advice and tips!
FAQs
Is bedwetting a psychological problem?
It can be linked to psychological problems such as chronic stressors, emotional or psychological stress, and loss of self-esteem.
Is it normal to keep wetting the bed until the age of 10/11?
No, it is not normal to keep wetting the bed until the age of 10/11. It is important to address it as early as possible to help prevent it from becoming a more serious problem.
Is it wrong to punish your child for bedwetting?
No, punishing your child for wetting the bed is not wrong. However, it is important to make sure that the punishment is appropriate and doesn’t worsen the child’s anxiety or stress as this will only make the problem worse.
Are boys more likely to bedwetting than girls?
Primary bedwetting is more common in boys than girls, with the overall prevalence of enuresis being 7.61%.
Would a bedwetting treatment like a desmopressin injection help me stop wetting the bed?
Desmopressin is a type of medication that is used to treat bedwetting. However, it is not always effective and may require repeated injections over time. So, it is important to talk to a doctor about the best treatment option for your child.
