Bedwetting is a problem thousands of families face night after night. It is especially common among young children, under the age of six. Studies show that bedwetting is seen in almost 13% of six-year-olds and about 5% of children over the age of ten.
Doctors aren’t sure of the root cause of bedwetting, the technical term for nocturnal enuresis. However, we all know that it is a normal part of development and something that children often outgrow with age. Contrary to popular belief, in most cases it is not a sign of deeper medical or emotional trauma.
Still, this habit can be very exhausting for families who have to deal with it every night. Children feel ashamed and guilty about wetting the bed. They are afraid to go to sleep at a friend’s house or to spend the night in a camp.
If your child is going through this phase, take the time to reassure him that bedwetting is a normal part of growing up. Let him know that it won’t last forever. Talk about other family members who also had to deal with it as children. This will make you understand that you are not alone in this embarrassing situation.
Instruct your child to use the bathroom one last time before bed, or try waking him up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom. Many parents have also found that drinking more fluids during the day and less at night works. Avoid caffeine too. You can also use bedwetting alarms.
Use a motivation system, such as a reward after a certain number of dry days. Praise your child when he has had a dry night. Don’t howl or yell when your child wakes up to wet sheets. Instead, ask your child to help you change the sheets. Help your child feel better knowing that he helped.
A consultation with your doctor might also be necessary if your child still wets the bed after the age of seven, suddenly starts wetting the bed after being consistently dry for at least 6 months, starts wetting his pants during the day, starts to misbehave. , you often complain of a burning sensation or pain when you urinate, you have to go to the bathroom often, you drink or eat much more than usual, or you have swelling in your feet or ankles.
The doctor may look for signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), constipation, bladder problems, diabetes, or severe stress.
In the meantime, your support and patience can go a long way toward making your child feel better.
