Why Does My Child Wet the Bed? Causes of Bedwetting

What is bedwetting?

The involuntary passage of urine during sleep is called bedwetting. Men are twice as likely to wet the bed as women.

What causes it?

No one knows what causes bedwetting, but several factors may play a role –

Small bladder:

Your child's bladder may not be developed enough to hold urine produced at night, which may not hold urine produced at night.

Inability to recognize a full bladder:

If the nerves that control the bladder mature slowly, a full bladder may not alert your child, especially if your child is in a deep sleep.

Hormonal Imbalances:

Some children do not produce enough anti-diuretic hormone (ADH), which slows down the process of nighttime urine production.

Tension:

Stressful events such as getting a big brother or sister, starting a new school, or moving to a different and new home can cause children to wet the bed.

Urinary tract infections:

A urinary tract infection can make it difficult for your child to control their urination.

Diabetes:

Bed-wetting, usually at night, can be the first sign of diabetes in children. Other symptoms include urinating a lot at once, excessive thirst, fatigue, and weight loss even after eating a moderate amount of food.

Chronic (long-term) constipation:

The same muscles control urination and stool elimination. If constipation persists, it can weaken these muscles, which can lead to bed-wetting at night.

Structural problems in the bladder or nervous system:

Bed-wetting is rarely related to a defect in the child’s nervous system or urinary system.

How to prevent bed-wetting?

Here are some changes you can make at home. These may help –

1. Limit the amount of fluids your child drinks in the evening.
2. Avoid caffeinated drinks and foods, as caffeine can stimulate the bladder.
3. Make it a habit to pass urine regularly before bed. Remind your child that it is okay to use the toilet at night if necessary. Keep a dim light in the room at night so that your child can easily find their way to the bedroom and bathroom.
4. Encourage regular toilet use throughout the day.
5. If your child has problems with constipation, your doctor may recommend a stool softener, which will relieve constipation.