Bedwetting

Bedwetting (Enuresis)

Bedwetting, medically known as enuresis, is a common and distressing issue for many children. It can affect a child’s confidence and self-esteem, making social situations like sleepovers, visits to relatives, or summer camps very stressful. This challenge is often hard not only for the child but also for concerned parents who worry about their child’s well-being.

It’s important to understand that bedwetting is not caused by bad behavior or intentional actions. Children who experience it need patience and support to help overcome the problem.

Causes of Bedwetting

Some children who had previously gained bladder control may regress due to emotional stress—such as moving to a new home, the arrival of a new sibling, or parental separation. Typically, bedwetting caused by stress is temporary.

Physical causes can include:

• Urinary tract infections that irritate the bladder and urethra.

• Neurological issues affecting bladder control.

• Conditions like sickle cell disease or diabetes, which can increase urine production.

• Allergic reactions to certain foods that irritate the bladder.

• Small bladder size or underdeveloped bladder nerves, meaning the bladder cannot hold urine overnight or doesn’t signal the brain when it’s full.

• Hormonal imbalances, especially low levels of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which reduces urine production at night.

• Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids.

• Chronic constipation or anatomical abnormalities, though rare, can also contribute.

When to Seek Medical Help

Most children outgrow bedwetting. However, consult a doctor if your child is over 5 or 6 years old and still wets the bed, especially if bedwetting starts after a period of dryness or is accompanied by symptoms like painful urination, blood in urine, excessive thirst, or snoring.

Managing Bedwetting

To protect your child’s skin from irritation caused by wet bedding, help them clean thoroughly each morning and apply a protective barrier like petroleum jelly before bed.

Natural Remedies and Supplements

Certain herbs can soothe anxiety, which sometimes underlies bedwetting. A calming herbal tea blend of passionflower, chamomile, and linden flower may help, given in the evening before bedtime. Skullcap may also be added for children over six.

Aromatherapy: Cypress essential oil, known for its astringent and antispasmodic properties, can be gently massaged onto the abdomen or added to a warm bath to support bladder control.

Practical Tips for Parents

• Limit fluids after mid-afternoon, especially caffeine, chocolate, soda, and citrus drinks.

• Encourage your child to urinate before bedtime.

• Consider waking your child once during the night to use the bathroom.

• Use positive reinforcement such as sticker charts and rewards to motivate your child.

• Ensure easy and safe access to the bathroom by clearing paths and installing night lights.

• Some parents find pull-ups helpful during sleepovers, though opinions vary on their use at home.

Helpful Herbs for Bedwetting

• Juniper berries: Diuretic and anti-inflammatory, supporting kidney and bladder health.

• Kava kava: Antiseptic, diuretic, and calming, helping with urinary infections and anxiety.

• Uva ursi: Supports the urinary system and kidneys with diuretic effects.