Did you know that bedwetting is also known as nocturnal enuresis, which is a common developmental phase in children? For most parents, this phase can be frustrating, confusing, and even distressing, especially when it continues beyond the expected age. Read on to discover when you should worry about bedwetting in children.

What Is Bedwetting?

Bedwetting is the involuntary release of urine during sleep in children who are considered old enough to wake up and go to the toilet on their own. Research suggests that it is classified into two types with different causes and implications:

• Primary nocturnal enuresis: It occurs when your child has never had consistent dry nights.
• Secondary nocturnal enuresis: This occurs when your child has not wet themselves for six months or more, and then they start wetting the bed again.

How Common Is It?

It’s common for you as a parent to expect your child to know how to do certain things at a specific age. However, you should keep in mind that every child is different, and they will develop their bladder control at their own pace. Most importantly, bedwetting is quite common from the age of 5, and it might not signal a problem with your child.
According to research, approximately 20% of children wet their beds when they are 5 years old. While the numbers are likely to decrease by age 10, it’s still possible for 12-year-olds to wet the bed occasionally.

What Causes Bedwetting?

Bedwetting can sometimes depend on age. However, other factors can contribute to continued bedwetting beyond what is considered normal. Additionally, these factors can overlap depending on circumstances, leading to underlying health concerns that may require necessary healthcare interventions.

1. Immature Bladder Control

As your child grows, their body is still developing, which means their bladder, kidneys and nervous system haven’t fully matured, and they don’t have enough control over when they pass urine. As a result, they may miss the cues to notice and wake up when their bladder is full. On the other hand, these developments could also mean that the urinary system isn’t large enough to hold urine throughout the night.

2. Deep Sleep Patterns

Some children sleep so deeply that they don’t recognise the signal to wake up and go to the toilet. This is particularly common in primary enuresis.

3. Genetics

Bedwetting tends to run in families. For instance, if you used to wet the bed as a child, your child has an estimated 40% chance of doing the same. On the other hand, if both parents did, these chances can increase significantly.

4. Hormonal Factors

If your child has a vasopressin deficiency, which is a hormone that reduces urine production at night, it can also result in excess urine, making it harder for the bladder to cope.

5. Stress and Emotional Triggers

Life changes such as starting school, relocating, bullying and emotional distress can lead to secondary bedwetting. The body often responds to emotional stress through physical symptoms.

6. Constipation

A full bowel can press against the bladder and reduce its capacity to hold urine, increasing the chance of nighttime accidents.

When Should You Start to Worry?

Although most cases of bedwetting don’t require immediate medical care, there are instances where it could indicate a more serious health issue. These are the examples of when you should consider consulting a doctor:

• It starts suddenly after an extended dry period, indicating a medical issue such as a UTI or diabetes, emotional stress or trauma.
• There’s consistent bedwetting beyond the age of 7.
• If they feel an uncontrollable need to urinate and cannot hold it in even during the day.
• There’s a history of urinary tract infections, which can cause irritation and bladder dysfunction.
• Sleep difficulties affect the brain’s ability to wake up when the bladder is full.
• Your child may feel embarrassed, avoid sleepovers, or express shame about bedwetting.

What Can Parents Do?

• Avoid Blame or Punishment: Shaming a child for something they can’t control only worsens the issue. Reinforce that bedwetting is common and not their fault.
• Establish a Calm Nighttime Routine: Encourage regular toilet visits before bed and limit fluid intake, especially sugary drinks, an hour or two before sleep.
• Track Patterns: Keeping a bedwetting diary can help identify triggers such as certain foods, stress, and when it most likely occurs.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you’re unsure whether the bedwetting is normal, a healthcare provider can assess for underlying causes and treatment options to consider.

If bedwetting continues even after making changes, appears suddenly, or is accompanied by other symptoms, you should seek professional advice. The sooner any underlying issues are identified, the sooner your child can return to sleeping confidently and comfortably through the night. With an Affinity Health Junior plan, you can access a nationwide network of doctors to provide a thorough assessment of potential symptoms and provide a specialist referral if necessary.