Visit the doctor for bedwetting

Summer is coming to an end, and you've likely received a health form for your child's annual checkup, which you'll need to complete before school starts in the fall. As a full-time pediatrician, I know this can be a busy clinic visit with height and weight measurements, blood pressure checks, hearing and vision tests, and, if applicable, vaccinations. You should be sure to discuss your child's eating habits, exercise routine, safety measures, and sleep with the pediatrician. You may also have other concerns and want your pediatrician's professional opinion. Many parents ask about bedwetting in their children, and I assure you, that's perfectly normal.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, 5 to 10 million children over the age of 5 still wet the bed occasionally. If your child's healthcare provider doesn't ask you about this or any other concerns you have about your child's emotional or physical health, don't hesitate to ask. Not only can your doctor help you, but they can also teach your child that there's no shame in bedwetting. The doctor will begin with a complete medical history and physical examination. You and your doctor will ask questions to establish the facts surrounding your child's bedwetting. After this discussion, the doctor may order simple tests to rule out any underlying medical conditions, such as a bladder infection or diabetes. Before you leave, your doctor will offer practical advice on how to better manage nighttime accidents.

I encourage parents to come to the annual exams with a list of questions. If your child wets the bed, here are some questions you might want to ask:

• Why is my child wetting the bed when he is dry during the day?
• What are the causes of bedwetting and how long does it last?
• As a doctor, what treatments do you recommend?
• What advice would you give my child to help him/her stop wetting the bed?

Your pediatrician will be able to help you with any questions you may have about bedwetting and will ask you questions about your child's bedwetting, including:

• Has your child always wet the bed, or did it start suddenly?
• Is your child drinking more than usual?
• Has your child gained or lost weight recently?
• Does your child complain of pain when urinating? Are they urinating more frequently?
• Have there been any significant changes at home, such as a divorce, a recent move, problems at school, or the death of a parent?

After explaining bedwetting, the doctor will likely want to talk about what a parent can do to help their child:

• Be compassionate and caring with your child. Make sure they know you're not angry with them or blaming them for wetting the bed.
• Offer her your support by talking about other family members who have wet the bed before.
• Make sure your child limits their fluid intake after dinner and empties their bladder just before going to bed.
• Help her avoid anxiety by suggesting she buy disposable underwear. She'll feel better about herself and wake up in dry sheets. This will give her a greater sense of control over the situation.
• Give him a big hug, wish him a good night, and tell him how much you love him.