Helping Children Overcome Bed-Wetting
The Key to Drier, Less Stressful Nights
Bed-wetting is a subject that typically embarrasses both children and parents alike. The important thing to realize is that bed-wetting is a medical condition and, with the right attention, it can be overcome.
Bed-wetting actually is more common than many parents might think. According to the National Kidney Foundation, 5-7 million children in the United States ages six and older wet the bed at night. The medical name for this condition is primary nocturnal enuresis.
"Bed-wetting for toddlers is normal, however, children in this category have reached the age when dry nights are expected, typically about age five or six," Francis Ogbolu, D.O., OLBH urologist, said. "Of those who still wet the bed after age six, about 15 percent will stop bed-wetting each year without treatment. But for many, it can continue for years."
Four of five bed-wetting cases occur in boys, and 10 percent are still wetting the bed by the age of 12.
"The key to drier, less stressful nights is to speak with your pediatrician or to contact a member of the OLBH team of urologists," Dr. Ogbolu said. "A medical specialist can conduct a physical exam to find out if there are any current infections or other health problems causing bed-wetting."
According to Dr. Ogbolu, in assessing the causes of bed-wetting, parents should note:
- When and how often your child goes to the bathroom
- How often he/she wets the bed
- If there have been recent bladder infections
- A family history of bed-wetting.
After an initial review, a physician can determine the best course of action. Often, simply limiting beverages at night can cure the problem, along with avoiding caffeine and decreasing carbonated beverages and chocolate. When bed-wetting is caused by a medical problem, treatment depends on the specific diagnosis. If your child has no specific medical problem causing him or her to wet the bed, but has never been dry at night, there are several treatment options. For more information, please consult your child's pediatrician or contact an OLBH urologist. If you child does not currently have a pediatrician, the hospital's CareLine can refer you to one who will help meet your child's healthcare needs. For more information, please call (606) 833-CARE (2273).
Tips for Parents
- Don't punish or belittle your child. Bed-wetting is not in your child's
control.
- Let your child know you love him/her and understand how he/she feels.
- Remind your child that wetting the bed is not his or her fault.
- Make clean-up quick and matter-of-fact. Encourage your child to help.
- Talk with your child and give an explanation of what's happening.
- If you wet the bed as a child, share your experience.
- Be particularly mindful of stressful situations that might lead to bedwetting - moving to a new home, starting a new school, having a new sibling.
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