Bedwetting or Enuresis

What is bedwetting or enuresis?

Enuresis is the medical name for bedwetting and it’s a common problem in kids, especially children under the age of 6 years. In fact, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most children do not become fully toilet trained until they are between 2 and 4 years of age. About 13% of 6-year-olds wet the bed, while about 5% of 10-year-olds do.

What causes bedwetting?

No one knows for sure what causes bedwetting or why it stops, but it’s usually a natural part of development and not a sign of any deeper medical or emotional issues. Bedwetting often runs in families: kids who wet the bed often have a relative who did, too. If both parents wet the bed when they were young, it's very likely that their child will, but most children grow out of it.

Bedwetting that begins abruptly or is accompanied by other symptoms can be a sign of another medical condition, so be sure to call a doctor if your child:

• suddenly starts wetting the bed after being consistently dry for at least 6 months
• begins to wet his or her pants during the day
• starts misbehaving at school or at home
• complains of a burning sensation or pain when urinating
• has to urinate frequently
• is drinking or eating much more than usual
• has swelling of the feet or ankles
• is still wetting the bed at age 7 years

The doctor may check for signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), constipation, bladder problems, diabetes, or severe stress, and if needed, provide a referral to our Nemours pediatric urologists who specialize in treating both simple and complex urologic problems in children.

How is bedwetting treated?

Bedwetting usually goes away by itself, but until it does, it can be embarrassing and uncomfortable for your child. It’s important to be sensitive to your child’s feelings about bedwetting and provide support and positive reinforcement during the process.

• Learn more about bedwetting from Nemours experts at KidsHealth.org
• Get bedwetting tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics
• And many families have found this website helpful: bedwettingstore.com