Why It Happens and How to Help
Dealing with bedwetting in children can be stressful and confusing for both parents and kids. But take to heart – you’re not alone. Bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is very common and can be managed with patience, understanding, and the right support.
Why do children wet the bed?
There are several common reasons why nighttime wetting happens:
Small bladder capacity: Sometimes a child’s bladder isn’t yet large enough to hold all the urine produced overnight.
Hormonal factors: Some children don’t produce enough of the hormone vasopressin, which reduces urine production while they sleep. This can cause more urine to build up than the bladder can hold.
Deep sleep: Many children sleep so deeply that they don’t wake up when their bladder is full.
Stress or life changes: Big transitions – such as starting a new school, moving, or family changes – can sometimes trigger temporary bedwetting.
Is it normal for my 7-year-old to wet the bed?
Yes – it’s actually very common. Research shows that around 10% of 7-year-olds still struggle with bedwetting.
In a typical classroom of 30 children, that means about three may wake up to a wet bed on some nights. So if this sounds familiar – you’re definitely not alone.
How to stop bedwetting – practical tips for parents
Here are some simple steps you can take to support your child:
Encourage regular toilet visits
Remind your child to use the bathroom regularly during the day and right before bedtime.
Limit evening drinks
Try reducing how much your child drinks in the evening, especially beverages with caffeine or high sugar. If your child is thirsty, let them drink water – the goal is balance, not restriction.
Try a bedwetting alarm
A bedwetting alarm can be one of the most effective long-term solutions.
The alarm detects the first drops of urine and wakes the child, helping them learn to respond to the feeling of a full bladder. Over time, this trains the brain and body connection and often leads to lasting dryness – without medication.
Consider medical treatment if needed
For some children, short-term use of enuresis medication like desmopressin can help, especially when traveling or when alarm therapy isn’t effective.
It reduces nighttime urine production but is a temporary aid rather than a cure.
When should you seek medical advice?
If your child is still wetting the bed regularly after the age of seven, or if bedwetting begins suddenly after a dry period, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor.
They can help rule out medical causes and provide guidance on bedwetting treatment options.
A final note for parents
Remember – bedwetting is not your child’s fault, and it’s something most children eventually grow out of. With patience, reassurance, and the right tools, you can help your child build confidence and move toward dry nights.
At Pjama, we’re here to support families on that journey — with bedwetting alarms, absorbent sleepwear, and practical resources that make the process a little easier for everyone.
