'Time to Take Action' on World Bedwetting Day

Now in its 3^rd year, the theme for World Bedwetting Day 2017 continues with ‘Time to Take Action’.

Bedwetting (or nocturnal enuresis) is an uncontrollable leakage of urine while asleep, which is considered abnormal in children over the age of 5. It is a common childhood condition, with approximately 5–10% of 7-year-olds regularly wetting their beds. In some cases, the problem may continue through teenage years and into adulthood.

In the past, bedwetting was considered a nuisance and something that would resolve by itself over time. Today it is recognised by doctors as a complex disorder, caused by several factors such as the overproduction of urine, bladder dysfunction and an inability to wake.

There is no established psychological basis but the condition could have serious impact on a child’s self-esteem, emotional well-being and day-time functioning and may lead to sleep issues.

The subject of bedwetting still causes embarrassment and so although treatment is available it is not always sought. Some doctors regard it as only a trivial matter which means that treatment is not always offered. Experts believe there could be better training for physicians to improve practice in enuresis management.

Now is the ‘Time to Take Action’. World Bedwetting Day is an opportunity to encourage conversation among families and between families and doctors to raise awareness of bedwetting as a common condition that can and should be treated. World Bedwetting Day aims to empower families to access the help they need.

Further information on Bedwetting, including Frequently Asked Questions, can be found here.