Bedwetting

It's common for toddlers to wet the bed, as they have not yet learned to control the flow of urine effectively. Bedwetting can be a problem for older children too.

Why Do Toddlers And Children Wet The Bed?

There are two types of bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis.

Primary nocturnal enuresis - a child has never developed complete night-time bladder control.
Secondary nocturnal enuresis - a child has accidental wetting after having had bladder control for six or more months. It's often associated with a period of emotional stress such as the birth of a younger sibling, a bereavement or school worries.

Why Does Bedwetting Happen?

bedwetting may be related to a small bladder size.
children whose parents used to wet the bed are more likely to do so themselves.
kidney or bladder infection may lead to bedwetting
constipation can lead to leakage of urine
children who wet the bed may have a lower level of antidiuretic hormone, which means they produce more urine
some children’s nervous system is not mature enough to be able to sense when the bladder is full.
diet - dairy products, citrus fruits, chocolate and foods containing high levels of artificial colour and sweetener have been associated with bedwetting.
often the cause of bed-wetting is not related to emotional problems. However, some children who wet the bed tend to be less mature and self-reliant than those who do.

Are There Any Treatments For Bedwetting?

Bedwetting resolves spontaneously in most children under six and there is seldom any need for treatment. If you are concerned, consult your GP.

What Can I Do To Reduce The Chances of My Child Wetting The Bed?

talk about the problem if you feel your child is old enough to understand
offer reassurance that he or she is not ill and that this is a temporary situation
praise any improvements
try not to blame, criticise or punish
ensure your child has been to the toilet before bed
ensure your child doesn't have a drink directly before bedtime.
ensure your child can reach the toilet - perhaps leave a light on.
encourage your child to return to her own bed after bedwetting
record wet and dry nights. Reward dry nights

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