It takes some time for children to learn to control their bladders—and thus their urge to urinate. Therefore, it’s perfectly normal for children to sometimes wet the bed at night. This phase can last until the age of five. However, if children continue to wet the bed even after this period, it is referred to as enuresis. This is generally not a cause for concern, as parents can often get the problem under control quickly. It is important to work with a pediatrician to determine the causes in order to find an appropriate treatment.
What is enuresis?
Enuresis is best described as “bedwetting.”
Generally speaking, there are several forms to distinguish between:
- Primary enuresis occurs when a child is older than 5 years and has never been potty-trained.
- Secondary enuresis occurs when a child has been dry for more than six months and then starts wetting the bed again.
Experts also distinguish between monosymptomatic enuresis and non-monosymptomatic enuresis:
- In the monosymptomatic form, the child wets the bed only at night and shows no other symptoms.
- In the non-monosymptomatic form, bedwetting can also occur during the day. Other symptoms may accompany this, indicating a bladder dysfunction.
What causes enuresis?
There are various reasons that can cause this condition:
- On the one hand, it may be a harmless case of delayed development. If this is the case, the child will become potty-trained a little later than indicated by medical statistics.
- There may be physical causes, such as a disorder affecting fluid-regulating hormones, a bladder that is too small, or general delayed bladder development.
- Psychological factors often play a role in enuresis. This is especially true in cases of secondary enuresis. If a child was previously potty-trained and suddenly starts wetting the bed again, this can be a sign of psychological problems. Traumatic events, changes in the family environment, or other stressful life events can contribute to enuresis.
Enuresis affects 30% of children at age 4, 10% at age 7, 3% at age 12, and 1% at age 18 (Source: MSD Manual) @ Tomsickova /AdobeStockTreatment of Enuresis
If bedwetting occurs after the age of five, a doctor should determine the underlying causes.
In cases of primary enuresis, it may simply be a developmental disorder that can be caused by physical or hormonal factors. This means that no treatment is necessary at all, as these factors usually resolve on their own. Statistics show that the incidence of bedwetting decreases by about 15 percent annually after the age of five. Nevertheless, caution is advised: Naturally, children become more embarrassed about bedwetting as they get older. This can lead to psychological stress or even behavioral issues.
If your child continues to wet the bed after the age of five, you should have your child thoroughly examined. Parents should not wait but should consult a pediatrician.
A consultation with a doctor can reassure you as a parent and create a relaxed atmosphere for your child. After all, parents and children suffer equally from enuresis. As a parent, don’t blame yourself and don’t be ashamed of your child.
Instead, reward your child when they haven’t wet the bed. Make sure your child doesn’t wait until the evening to quench their thirst, as this can cause the bladder to become overloaded at night.
Monitor the situation and make sure your child drinks enough throughout the day as well.
If you suspect that your child’s bedwetting has psychological causes, consult a child psychologist.
Possible treatment methods for enuresis include:
- Consultation with a doctor
- Rewarding “dry” days
- Creating a relaxing atmosphere
- If necessary, consultations with a child psychologist
Prognosis for enuresis
Although one percent of adults still wet the bed, the prognosis for enuresis is generally considered good. Often, just a few simple measures can help bring enuresis under control.
Share this article
