Bed Wetting
Does your child wet the bed at night, even though they are usually dry during the day?
Should you be worried?
Bedwetting, or enuresis, is a common childhood condition where a child urinates while sleeping. It’s important to remember that it’s often not something they can control.
Up to 15% of 5-year-olds experience bedwetting, and while it usually decreases with age, around 5% of 10-year-olds may still have occasional accidents. It’s important to be understanding and patient with your child, as bedwetting can sometimes be frustrating for both of you.

Why would your child still be wetting the bed?
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Development:
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- Bladder size: Some children simply have smaller bladders that haven’t developed the capacity to hold a full night’s worth of urine.
- Hormone production: A hormone called antidiuretic hormone (ADH) helps concentrate urine and reduce its volume at night. Some children don’t produce enough ADH yet, leading to more urine production overnight.
- Neurological development: The nerves that signal a full bladder to the brain may be maturing slower in some children, making them less aware of the need to wake up and use the bathroom.
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Sleep Factors:
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- Deep sleep: Children who are deep sleepers may not wake up in response to the sensation of a full bladder.
- Sleep disorders: Conditions like sleep apnoea can disrupt sleep and increase the likelihood of bedwetting.
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Medical Conditions:
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- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): UTIs can irritate the bladder and cause increased urgency and frequency, leading to accidents both day and night.
- Constipation: A full rectum can put pressure on the bladder, reducing its capacity and contributing to bedwetting.
- Diabetes: Increased thirst and urination are common symptoms of diabetes, and bedwetting can sometimes be an early sign.
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Genetics and Family History:
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- Family history: Bedwetting tends to run in families. If one or both parents wet the bed as children, their child has a higher chance of also experiencing it.
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Stress and Emotional Factors:
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- Stressful life events: Changes like a new sibling, starting school, or family difficulties can trigger bedwetting, even in children who were previously dry at night.
When to Seek Help for Bedwetting
If your child is experiencing persistent bedwetting, it’s time to seek professional guidance. We can help identify the underlying causes and develop a personalized treatment plan to help them achieve nighttime dryness.
Consider making an appointment if:
- Your child is 5-6 years or older with regular bedwetting.
- Bedwetting is impacting their self-esteem or social life.
- At-home strategies haven’t been effective.
- You have concerns about other bladder or bowel issues.
Make a booking with us today.
We’re here to provide support and guidance every step of the way.
Remember: Bedwetting is a common issue, and with the right support, most children can overcome it!
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