Overview
Bedwetting is passing urine during sleep beyond the age when a child is usually dry at night, around five years. It is very common, rarely a sign of anything serious, and almost never the child's fault, so scolding does not help and often makes it worse. Most children outgrow it as they mature. Simple measures, reassurance and a supportive approach work well, and a doctor can help if it persists, is new after being dry, or comes with other symptoms.
Symptoms
- Involuntary passing of urine during sleep
- Wet bedding in the morning
- Usually a deep sleeper who does not wake to a full bladder
- No daytime urinary problems in most children
- Sometimes a family history of bedwetting
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if bedwetting continues past age seven, starts again after months of being dry, or comes with daytime wetting, pain or excessive thirst.
Causes
A bladder that is still maturing, deep sleep, making more urine at night, constipation, and a family tendency. Rarely infection or other conditions.