Not Alone

If your child wets the bed they’re not alone. Five to seven million kids in the U.S. alone wet the bed some nights or most nights. And, although challenging, bedwetting is normal in child development and simply a part of growing up for many kids.

Common Causes of Bedwetting

• Your child could just be a deep sleeper and not awaken to the sign of a full bladder.
• Their bladder may be too small to hold urine through the night, or communication between the brain and bladder is still developing.
• Constipation can put pressure on your child’s bladder and lead to problems both holding and emptying urine.
• Mild illness or stress in your child’s life can cause them to wet the bed, or it could be related to a family history of bedwetting.

Tips For Managing Bedwetting

• Be honest—Remember it’s not your child’s fault. It’s just a normal part of some kids’ development. So be honest with your child and let them know it’s not their fault, and they’ll most likely outgrow it soon.
• Stay positive—Be sensitive to your child’s feelings and offer support. If you don’t make a big deal about it, chances are they won’t either.
• Note habits & set a routine—Be aware of your child’s daily urine and bowel habits. Limit large amounts of fluids (especially sugary and carbonated drinks) before bed and have your child use the toilet right before getting into bed. If possible wake your child 1–2 hours after going to sleep to go again.
• Protect their bed—Even under the best circumstances, accidents aren’t always preventable. And when they do happen, nighttime protective underwear like Ninjamas help keep your child and their bed dry while controlling urine odor.

When to See Your Doctor

Bedwetting is a common childhood issue, but below are some instances when you may want to talk with your doctor.

• Your child has been completely toilet trained for 6 months and starts wetting the bed.
• While urinating, your child experiences pain, burning, or strain, or dribbles after urination.
• You notice your child’s urine is cloudy or pink, or they have bloodstains on their underwear.
• Your child has both daytime and nighttime wetting or has poor bowel control.