Should You Worry About Bedwetting

Bedwetting, or Enuresis, is a common problem. The definition of bedwetting is the involuntary passage of urine during sleep. The frequency of wetting that is necessary to be considered a problem varies. The American Psychiatric Association defines enuresis as wetting two or more times per week for at least three consecutive months in children over the age of five.

Nocturnal enuresis affects approximately 5 million children in the United States. In most cases, bedwetting runs in families and often the child will become dry without intervention around the same age that the parent became dry as a child.

The following timetable shows the normal development of bladder control:

• Ages birth-18 months: The child is unaware of bladder filling or emptying.
• Ages 18-24 months: The child has a conscious sensation of bladder emptying.
• Ages 2-3: Most children develop the ability to voluntarily stop urination and develop appropriate toileting skills.
• Ages 3-5:  Most children have achieved urinary control and are dry both day and night.

What can you do to help your child stay dry at night?
Be supportive. Remember your child is not wetting the bed on purpose.  They are embarrassed by the situation and discussing can help put them at ease.Remind children that bedwetting is no one’s fault. Let them know that their are many children that have the same problem.

Make a few changes  

• Try to eliminate drinks a few hours before bedtime
• Make sure they us the potty right before getting into bed for the night
• Wake your child during the night and walk them the bathroom

Visit the Doctor 
Make an appointment with your Pediatrician. They can help you decide on plan and if any treatment is needed. 

In most cases, children grow out of bedwetting over time. 

Source: NAFC www.narc.org