Blog

What Parents Need To Know About Bed-Wetting In Preschoolers

Potty training is a developmental accomplishment for a child. When it is achieved, parents may already expect that a child can fully stay dry through the night. It becomes a surprise to parents then, when a child suddenly wets the bed. It is usually just a phase, but some parents may be concerned when their child goes through it. About 40% of toilet-trained children still wet their beds at some point in time.

Bed-wetting takes place in two ways. Primary nocturnal enuresis happens when a child wets by accident. It is typical for children who never attained bladder control for more than 3 months. This type of bed-wetting is generally not connected to any underlying medical problem.

Although the cause is not fully known, some factors may play a role. A child with an immature nervous system may still be unable to sense a full bladder. Just the same, bed wetting is common to children with small bladders or those with a hormonal imbalance. Children also get in these accidents during a deep sleep. A child’s night time bladder control may also be affected by psychological or social factors.

Children who have already achieved bladder control for 6 to 12 months but still have accidents may have secondary nocturnal enuresis This type of bed-wetting is commonly caused by a physical problem. These may be due to infections of the bladder or kidneys, or birth defects affecting the urinary tract.

There is a need for parents to know when to seek for help. A child who hasn’t had a successful bladder control for 3 months or longer may only need a little more time to overcome bet-wetting. It generally does not need medical attention since it is a normal phase that every child goes through as they grow up.

If you observe that your child is experiencing difficulty when urinating or having an increased frequency of urination, consult your health care provider. If his urine is cloudy or pinkish, be sure to mention it to the doctor. You also need to seek consultation if your child has turned 5 or 6 years of age, and still has accidents.

Bed-wetting happens unconsciously, and an older child may feel embarrassed when it occurs. It’s important for parents to be supportive in reinforcing good habits. Try to limit fluids at night, and make sure that your child urinates before sleeping. Have your child avoid caffeine containing foods and beverages late in the day. Caffeine is a diuretic so it may affect the bladder function even when your child is asleep.

Keep the path to the batroom well-lit so your child can easily and safely go there when he needs to. An extra thirty minutes of sleep each night, may also help stop bed-wetting in children. It may also help if you encourage your child to express his feelings. Your attention may only be what it takes to help your anxious child feel secured. Forgive and forget his accidents, but praise your child for dry nights.

Parents need to explain to their child that bed-wetting is normal because it is part of growing up. Do not let your child feel bad for bed-wetting because it may only aggravate the problem. Children will always have challenges when growing up, and parents need to ensure that they get all the necessary support, so that they can fully achieve their developmental tasks.

To receive more parenting tips in your inbox, please visit http://www.gagazine.com and subscribe to our newsletter.