Bedwetting In Children: Urologist Explains How To Help Kids Get Better Bladder Control, When To See A Doctor

While bedwetting is a common issue in early childhood, a small percentage may continue to experience it into adolescence.

Representational image.

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Parents of children who wet their bed beyond the age of 5 years often face a dilemma: Is it some health problem that causes the child to pee in the bed while fast asleep at night? Or is it a case of laziness and irresponsible behaviour?

Bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis, is common in children, with its frequency decreasing as they grow older. A fairly old study carried out by the Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, New York, US — published in 'Pediatrics' — reported that bedwetting occurred in 33% of 5-year-olds, 18% of 8-year-olds, 7% of 11-year-olds, and 0.7% of 17-year-olds. Other studies have shown that the overall prevalence of bedwetting declines as children grow older, and that nocturnal enuresis affects more boys than girls. 

While bedwetting is a common issue in early childhood, a small percentage may continue to experience it into adolescence.

Dr Ashutosh Baghel, consultant urologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road (Mumbai), spoke to ABP Live on various aspects of nocturnal enuresis among children. Excerpts from what he told us:

ABP: Typically, up to what age do children suffer from episodes of bedwetting or nocturnal enuresis?

Dr Ashutosh Baghel: Bedwetting is completely normal in children, especially those in the age group of 2 to 7 years old. This is because it takes time to develop control over your bladder movements. However, many kids grow out of this habit naturally as they grow older. If this habit continues after a certain age, then it becomes crucial to visit a doctor for further evaluation.

ABP: When should parents be worried about their children’s bedwetting episodes?

Dr Ashutosh Baghel: Parents should be worried if bedwetting continues after the age of 7. If they are experiencing symptoms like extreme pain, feeling extremely thirsty even after drinking enough water, and unusual urination or bowel movements…. These signs could be an indication of underlying health conditions, or emotional distress. This makes it crucial to consult a doctor before wasting any time for prompt diagnosis.

ABP: What are the most common causes or reasons for bedwetting among kids?

Dr Ashutosh Baghel: Various factors can come together to contribute to the occurrence of bedwetting episodes in children. Bedwetting most of the time happens due to deep sleep, when the child’s natural reflex to use the washroom after the bladder movement slows down. Other common reasons may include slow bladder growth, being extremely stressed, drinking a large quantity of fluids before going to bed, or a family history of bedwetting.

ABP: How can one help a child prepare for bed so as to ensure they sleep without bedwetting of nocturnal enuresis incidents?

Dr Ashutosh Baghel: To prevent bedwetting episodes, it becomes crucial to take proactive steps for the betterment of their health. 

Make it a daily habit for your child to use the washroom before going to bed to empty their bladder. Creating a calming bedtime can help them relax and sleep well.

ABP: What rare disorders or diseases are also the likely reasons for bedwetting among growing children?

Dr Ashutosh Baghel: Various health conditions can cause symptoms like bedwetting among children. This can include conditions like diabetes, kidney problems, sleep apnoea, neurological disorders, or urinary tract infections. If bedwetting stays persistent for a longer duration, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

The writer is a senior independent journalist.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concern.]