Bed-Wetting

Bed-wetting (enuresis) in children who have never been dry is common, and most children will outgrow it by about age six to eight. In almost all cases, it is really not a disease, but rather a normal variation in development.

In some cases, a child who has been dry for several months or longer may begin bed-wetting again. This may happen without a clear cause, or may possibly be due to a urinary tract infection or to emotional problems.

Home Treatment

There are a number of ways to deal with bed-wetting that don't require medication. Ask your doctor for advice in managing bed-wetting until your child outgrows it.

• Do not punish, embarrass, or blame the child.
• Remind the child to get up during the night to urinate. Providing a bedside potty chair and night light may help.
• Let children over age five take control of the problem. Help them learn to wake themselves at night to go to the bathroom. Set an alarm for three to four hours after bedtime, and make sure the child has to get out of bed to turn it off.
• Do not force a child to wear diapers at night. However, some children may be more comfortable wearing adult diapers such as Attends or Depend. Waterproof, extra-absorbent underwear or thick pads to protect the mattress may also help avoid daily bed changes. Wash them with one-half cup of vinegar to eliminate odor.

When to Call a Health Professional

Your doctor can rule out or treat any physical causes of bed-wetting and help you and your child manage the problem.

• If bed-wetting occurs with painful or burning urination or other signs of urinary tract infection.
• If prevention and home treatment are not successful after four to six weeks in a child older than six.
• If bed-wetting becomes more frequent or severe.
• If bed-wetting occurs in a child who had previously been dry for several months.
• If bed-wetting occurs with soiling of the underwear with bowel movements after age three.
• If a child over age three has daytime bladder control problems.