WHY DOES IT HAPPEN AND HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Managing bedwetting can be a challenge for many parents. But don’t worry, you’re not alone, and there are solutions that can help your child stay dry at night.
Why do children wet the bed?
There are several reasons why children may wet the bed:
Bladder size: Sometimes a child’s bladder isn’t big enough to hold all the urine produced during the night.
Hormonal factors: Some children don’t produce enough of the hormone that reduces urine production at night, which leads to larger amounts of urine.
Deep sleep: Some children sleep so deeply that they don’t wake up when their bladder is full.
Stress or changes: Major life changes, such as starting a new school or family changes, can also contribute to bedwetting.
Common questions about bedwetting
Is it normal for my child to still wet the bed at 7 years old?
Yes, it’s actually more common than you might think. Experts estimate that as many as 10% of 7-year-olds experience bedwetting. In a school class of 30 children, this means that on average 3 of them may wake up to a wet bed some nights.
What can I do to help my child?
Here are some helpful tips and advice.
Regular toilet visits:
Encourage your child to use the toilet regularly during the day and always just before bedtime.
Limit drinks in the evening:
Try to reduce the amount your child drinks in the evening, especially drinks that contain caffeine or lots of sugar. Of course, if your child is thirsty, they should still be allowed to have a drink.
Use a bedwetting alarm:
Bedwetting alarms help children become aware of the need to wee during the night. The alarm detects the first drops of urine and wakes the child, helping the body learn to connect the feeling of a full bladder with waking up and going to the toilet. It’s an effective and long-term method that often leads to lasting improvement without medication.
Medical treatment:
Medicines for enuresis are mainly used for temporary relief, for example during trips or when an alarm isn’t effective. The most common medicine is desmopressin, which reduces urine production at night. It often works quickly, but it doesn’t cure enuresis—it only eases the symptoms temporarily.
When should I seek professional help?
If your child continues to wet the bed after the age of 7, or if bedwetting starts suddenly after a period of dry nights, it’s a good idea to speak to a doctor to rule out any medical causes.
Remember, bedwetting is common and in most cases something children grow out of. With patience, support and the right strategies, you can help your child through this stage.
