Bedwetting: Everything you need to know

Bedwetting, also known as enuresis nocturna, is the involuntary urination during sleep, usually in children but also in adults. This can be a frustrating and sometimes embarrassing problem for both the person dealing with it and the parents. Although bedwetting is common in young children who are not yet fully potty trained, it can persist in some children and even adults. Bedwetting can have several causes, but the good news is that it often goes away on its own and there are several treatment options available.

Because it is often not talked about much, children (and parents) get into the mindset that they are on their own. We are changing that!

Causes of bedwetting

There can be several causes for bedwetting. In young children, it is often a matter of bladder control not yet fully developed. In older children and adults, bedwetting can be caused by an overactive bladder, hormonal imbalances, or a deep sleep rhythm where the signals of a full bladder are not noticed. Hereditary factors can also play a role; if one of the parents suffered from bedwetting, the child is more likely to have the same problem. Medical causes such as urinary tract infections or diabetes may also contribute to bedwetting.

Bedwetting in children

Bedwetting is common in children, especially under the age of five. At this age, bladder control is often still developing and accidents at night are common. As children get older, their brains improve their ability to recognize signals of a full bladder, allowing them to stay dry at night. However, if a child over the age of five regularly wets the bed, there may be enuresis nocturna, which requires extra attention and guidance. As a parent, it is important to remain patient and supportive and avoid punishment.

Bedwetting in adults

Although bedwetting is less common in adults than in children, it can still be an annoying and embarrassing problem. Adults who experience bedwetting can have several causes, including stress, medical conditions such as diabetes or sleep apnea, or an overactive bladder. It is essential to seek medical attention when bedwetting occurs in adults, as it can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying health problem. There are treatments available that can help, such as medication or behavioral therapy.

Treatments for bedwetting

There are several treatments available for bedwetting, depending on the cause and the age of the person. One of the most effective treatments for children is the use of a bedwetting alarm. These devices detect moisture and wake the child as soon as the first drops of urine are released, allowing the child to learn to wake up and go to the bathroom. For both children and adults, behavioral techniques such as limiting fluid intake before bedtime and bladder training can be effective. In some cases, medication such as desmopressin may be prescribed to reduce urine production.

What can you do as a parent?

As a parent of a child who bedwetters, it is important to remain patient and support your child without shame or punishment. Talk to your child about the problem and make sure they know that bedwetting is a common and normal occurrence during development. A reward system can help motivate your child to achieve dry nights. Also provide practical solutions, such as using a waterproof mattress pad and washing bedding regularly to maintain hygiene.

Heredity and bedwetting

There is evidence that bedwetting is partly hereditary. If one or both parents suffered from bedwetting as children, their children are more likely to experience the same problem. Research shows that if both parents bedwettered as children, their children have a 75% chance of also developing bedwetting. This genetic aspect means that bedwetting often has nothing to do with behavioral problems or lack of discipline, but is a matter of physical development.

The emotional impact of bedwetting

Bedwetting can take an emotional toll on both children and adults. It can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and frustration, especially in older children and adults who fear they are outside the norm. For children, it can even lead to avoidance behaviors, such as refusing to go to sleepovers or school camps. As a parent, it is crucial to acknowledge this emotional impact and support your child by discussing the problem openly and seeking a solution without judgment.

When to see a doctor?

In most cases, bedwetting is a phase that children grow out of on their own. However, if a child is older than seven and still wets the bed regularly, it may be wise to consult a doctor. Adults are also advised to seek medical attention, especially if bedwetting begins suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, frequent daytime urination, or unexplained thirst. A doctor can help identify the underlying cause and suggest appropriate treatment.

Tips to prevent bedwetting

There are several strategies that can help reduce or prevent bedwetting. One is to limit fluid intake in the hours before bedtime so that the bladder is less full during the night. It is also important to instill a regular toilet habit by encouraging the child to go to the toilet just before bedtime. In children, a bedwetting alarm can help train bladder control. In addition, provide a calm and relaxed bedtime routine to reduce stress, which can exacerbate bedwetting.

Dealing with bedwetting

Bedwetting is a common problem that often goes away on its own, but it can also be challenging for both children and adults. It is important to remain patient and address the problem without guilt or shame. There are several treatments available, such as bedwetting alarms, behavioral therapy, and medication, that can help reduce or completely stop bedwetting. Through open communication and giving your child or yourself time to become potty trained, bedwetting can be effectively managed and eventually resolved.