The Bedwetting Blues

Bedwetting is something that I’ve seen children (and parents) struggle with and something that I’ve learned is a way more common problem than we may think for children, and even teens.

If your child is toilet trained during the day but struggling to stay dry at night, then you will want to rule out a possible bladder infection or any other health problems. Your family physician will likely test a urine sample for bacteria and provide antibiotics if it tests positive. They may also test for glucose to rule out diabetes. If those are negative they may perform an ultrasound on the bladder to rule out any abnormalities, especially if your child is older. At times enuresis (bedwetting) can be an emotional response to changes in the child’s life or past trauma. If you suspect this to be the case, don’t hesitate to find therapy for your child.

Bedwetting can run in the family. If you or your spouse had difficulty staying dry at night then your child just may need time as well to grow out of the problem. In the meantime, don’t ever punish your child for wetting their bed but support them and try the following strategies.

•  You can use Pull Ups to avoid having to change sheets every night and interrupt your child’s sleep but please note that children can become dependent on them so every now and then try your child without them to see if they can make it through the night

• Make sure your child isn’t drinking a lot before bed, but don’t deny them a few sips of water

• Have them use the washroom before bed and then get them up to use the washroom again before you go to bed for the night

•   If your child is going for a sleepover or camp, then speak with an adult about your child’s problem so that they can help them put on a pull up or remind them to use the washroom to avoid being embarrassed

• A reward chart can be used to encourage your child. Reward them for following the strategies, not for staying dry, as that is out of their control

• Finally, stay calm and try not to let your child’s bedwetting impair their self-esteem by letting them know that they are normal and not alone in their struggle to stay dry.