Quick guide to ... Bedwetting

16 June 2009 1 min read Health

Bedwetting is most common among children under seven. Nocturnal enuresis, as it is also known, is more common in boys. While in most cases it ends by the age of seven, it is still prevalent up to 14 and in rare cases can continue into adulthood.

There is no definite cause, but many researchers believe it is linked to the way the brain and bladder communicate. Children have to learn to recognise the feeling of needing to go to the toilet and that can take time. Other causes are a small bladder or a child sleeping so deeply they do not wake up when they need the toilet. Bedwetting has also been linked to conditions such as diabetes and urinary tract infections. If a child is over seven, the NHS advises consulting a GP to rule out these causes. Bedwetting can also happen in times of stress so latest NHS guidance urges parents to encourage children to talk about their worries.

Register Now to Continue Reading

Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits: