Introduction
Bedwetting is common and often runs in families. It can be upsetting, but most children and young people will grow out of it. See a GP or school nurse for advice.
Things you can do at home to help with bedwetting
Do
give your child enough water to drink during the day
make sure your child goes to the toilet regularly, around 4 to 7 times a day, including just before bedtime
agree with your child on rewards for positive actions, such as a sticker for every time they use the toilet before bed
use waterproof covers on their mattress and duvet
make sure they have easy access to a toilet at night
Don't
do not punish your child – it is not their fault and can make bedwetting worse
do not give your child drinks containing caffeine, such as cola, tea and coffee – this can make them pee more
do not regularly wake or carry your child in the night to use the toilet – this will not help in the long term
Bedwetting in young children is normal
Many children under the age of 5 wet the bed.
It can take some time for a child to learn to stay dry throughout the night.
See a GP if:
- you've tried things you can do at home and your child keeps wetting the bed
- your child has started wetting the bed again after being dry for more than 6 months
Treatments from a GP
If your child keeps wetting the bed, a GP will be able to suggest options such as:
- a bedwetting alarm
- medicine to reduce how much pee your child makes at night
The GP will check if treatment is helping. They'll also be able to offer support if you are finding it hard to cope.
If these treatments do not work, your child may be referred to a specialist.
Causes of bedwetting
There are many reasons why a child might wet the bed. Causes include:
- not feeling the need to pee while sleeping
- making too much pee at night
- stress at home or at school
Bedwetting may also be caused by an underlying health condition such as diabetes or constipation.