Dictionary For Dads

Primary enuresis is the medical name for bed wetting.  Wetting the bed typically starts when kids are toddlers. It is very common among kids who are 6 years old or younger. About 15% of 6-year-olds wet the bed. And about 5% of 10-year-olds wet the bed.

• Bed wetting is an issue that millions of families face every night. It is extremely common among kids who are under the age of 6, and it can last into the preteen years.
• Bed wetting often runs in families: Most kids who wet the bed have a relative that did it, too. If both parents wet the bed when they were young, it's very likely that their child will as well.
• Doctors are not sure what causes bed wetting or why it stops. But it is considered a natural part of development and kids eventually grow out of it. Most of the time bedwetting is not a sign of any deeper medical or emotional issues.
• Bed wetting can be very stressful for families. Kids can feel embarrassed and guilty about wetting the bed and anxious about spending the night at a friend's house or at camp. Fathers often feel helpless to stop it.
• There may not be any way for you to cure your child's bedwetting, but the emotional support and reassurance you provide can help your child feel better until the bed wetting goes away on its own.

• Bed wetting usually goes away on its own. But until it does, it can be embarrassing and uncomfortable for your child. So it's important that you provide support and positive reinforcement during this process.
• Reassure your child that bed wetting is a normal part of growing up and that it's not going to last forever. It may comfort your child to hear about other family members who also struggled with it when they were young.
• Remind your child to go to the bathroom one final time before bedtime. Some parents try waking their kids in the middle of the night, but most of the time, that doesn't end the bed wetting.
• When your child wakes with wet sheets, have your child help you change the sheets. Explain that this isn't punishment, but it is a part of the process. It may even help your child feel better knowing that he or she helped out.

In rare cases, when bed wetting begins abruptly and is accompanied by other symptoms, it can be a sign of another medical condition, and you may want to talk with your child's doctor.

The doctor may check for signs of a urinary tract infection, constipation, bladder problems, diabetes, or severe stress.

It's a good idea to call your doctor if your child suddenly starts wetting the bed after being consistently dry for at least 6 months. You may also want to call the doctor if your child begins to wet his or her pants during the day, starts misbehaving at school or at home, or if your child complains of a burning sensation when he or she goes to the bathroom.

Do not use the information on this website as a substitute for professional medical advise as stated in our website disclaimer.