Drinking more fluids increases the success rate of bedwetting treatment

Yes, you read that right, the more the child drinks, the faster their treatment will be effective.

A recent study in Russia suggests that children who drink more before bedtime while using a bedwetting alarm are much more successful at achieving toilet training. This often contradicts the practices of families who frequently limit their children's fluid intake, especially in the evening. Specialists have hypothesized that more frequent use of the alarm system may accelerate the development of the conditioned arousal response triggered by the urge to urinate.

The study was conducted on 294 children, with an average age of 11.3 years, divided into 2 groups:

• Group A: The children used the alarm with normal and controlled fluid intake in the evening.
• Group B: The children drank water immediately before going to sleep. The volume was 4-5 ml/kg, which corresponds to 20 to 25 cl (a large glass of water) for a child weighing approximately 45 kg.

Efficacy was measured by the frequency of bedwetting episodes per week and episodes of spontaneous awakenings related to the urge to urinate. The total duration of alarm use was not recorded. Results were analyzed after only two weeks of treatment with the alarm.

The results are unexpected:

• 24% in group A
• Compared to 39% in group B.

This difference was statistically significant and shows an improvement in outcomes when increased fluid intake is used in combination with nocturnal enuresis alarm treatment.

Kid Medical therefore recommends that parents not limit their child's water intake during treatment. However, we still advise against carbonated and/or sugary drinks.

It's also important to remember that a child undergoing treatment should go to the toilet at least 4 to 5 times a day. Drinking more fluids encourages the child to exercise their bladder more and makes them feel the urge to wake up due to a full bladder. This will make it easier for them to go to the toilet to empty their bladder.