Bedwetting

Overview

Many children aren't dry at night until age 5 to 7. It often runs in families.

Bedwetting that starts after being dry for months can be from stress, constipation, a UTI, or diabetes.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Wetting the bed

Less common

• Deep sleep

When to get medical care

Causes

Slow bladder control development, deep sleep, family history, constipation, and sometimes UTIs or diabetes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
• It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

• Family history
• Boys
• Constipation

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional asks about habits and checks urine.

Questions you may be asked

• Daytime accidents, constipation, snoring

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Urine test: For infection or sugar.

Treatment

Support and simple steps help.

Self-care

• Don't punish: it's not the child's fault
• Limit drinks in the evening
• Pee right before bed
• Treat constipation

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

A bedwetting alarm works well for children 7 and older.

Prevention

To help:

• Limit evening drinks
• Regular bathroom trips

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your child's pediatrician.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most children can go to daycare or school as usual.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
• Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
• Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most children outgrow it.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Is a bedwetting alarm right for us?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Bedwetting