Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis)

Bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, happens when a child empties their bladder while sleeping. It’s a common problem that affects many young children.

Why does my child wet the bed?

Most children will grow out of bedwetting, and it’s important to know that the child isn’t lazy or doing it to get attention. They just don’t wake up when their bladder is full or have enough control yet.

Other causes for bedwetting include:

• genetics – bedwetting can run in the family
• a small bladder – where the bladder can’t hold enough urine overnight
• deep sleep – some children sleep very deeply and don’t wake up when they need to go to the toilet
• kidneys that produce too much urine at night – urine volume decreases overnight, but sometimes this doesn’t happen.

When to seek help

Bedwetting isn’t usually caused by a physical problem but it’s a good idea to see your GP if:

• your child is at least 6 years old – younger children will often improve without treatment
• the bedwetting is upsetting or frustrating your child
• your child begins wetting after being dry for some time
• your child wets or has bowel movements in their pants during the day.

What treatments can my child have?

Usually, your child won’t need medicine or surgery to stop them bedwetting, but your GP can give you a treatment plan.

Strategies might include:

• getting your child to keep a chart that records their dry and wet nights – they can use stars and colours to encourage them
• setting an alarm to wake your child at night
• teaching your child to recognise when their bladder is full
• changing habits and exercise.

How can I support my child?

Your child might feel ashamed and embarrassed about their bedwetting. It’s important to reassure them that many children wet their bed and that it’s very common.

Ask siblings and other family members to encourage and support your child as they learn to stay to dry at night.

Help and resources

Bedwetting in children - Continence Foundation of Australia

Developed by the Division of Medicine, Queensland Children’s Hospital. We acknowledge the input of consumers and carers.

Resource ID: FS148. Reviewed: May 2023.

Disclaimer: This information has been produced by healthcare professionals as a guideline only and is intended to support, not replace, discussion with your child’s doctor or healthcare professionals. Information is updated regularly, so please check you are referring to the most recent version. Seek medical advice, as appropriate, for concerns regarding your child’s health.