Kids grow up pretty fast during their first five years. While they may grow out of their toys and their clothes (faster than we would like!), it’s a common misconception that all kids will also grow out of bedwetting by this age. Did you know up to 1 in 5 kids aged over 5, and 1 in 10 kids aged 10 continue to wet the bed?
If your child is among those that haven’t stopped by the age of five, it is likely bedwetting may be as a result of something beyond his or her control. This is where the support of a healthcare professional can be most beneficial.
Bedwetting beyond the “normal” age of five can be an incredibly stressful time for parents and children. Yet despite this, only a third of Australian families are seeking the support of healthcare professionals for their child’s bedwetting, and most are reluctant to discuss bedwetting at all.
Continuing to wet the bed beyond the age of five can have a significant impact on your child’s self-esteem and social development, particularly when they start going to school and start wanting to have sleepovers and go to school camps. It’s common for kids to want to avoid these situations for fear of being bullied or teased for bedwetting, and this can result in them feeling isolated and alone.
So, what can you do to help your kids?
While it may be a frustrating process, it’s important to stay positive and focus on the nights when your child stays dry. Regularly reassure them that they’re not alone and that together as a team, with your healthcare professional, you’ll provide them with the support they need to help control their bedwetting.
We’ve also created a checklist to help you discuss bedwetting with your doctor. Complete the checklist and take it with you to your next appointment.
References
- Bedwetting Institute. 2016. Available online: http://bedwettinginstitute.com.au/fact-sheet/ (Last accessed 19 Sept 2016)
- Caldwell P et al. MJA 2005; 182: 190–195
- Dobson P. Nursing Times 2006; 1: 1-5
- Johns, A. Available online: http://www.myvmc.com/news/bedwetting-teens-neglected-problem/ (Last accessed 19 Sept 2016)
- Continence Foundation Australia. Available online: http://www.continence.org.au/pages/bedwetting.html (Last accessed 21 Sept 2016)
- Theunis M et al. Eur Urol 2002;41(6):660–667. doi: 10.1016/S0302-2838(02)00127-6
- Hoffman M. Available online: http://www.webmd.com/children/features/bedwetting-causes#1. (Last accessed 19 Sept 2016)
- Boyse K. 2008. University of Michigan. Available online: http://www.med.umich.edu/yourchild/topics/enuresis.htm (Last accessed 20 Sept 2016)
- eHealthMedicine. Available online: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/bedwetting/article_em.htm (Last accessed 29 Sept 2016)
