Due to the strong family history it is not unusual for a number of siblings to experience bedwetting. Current statistics suggest about 8 in 10 children experiencing nighttime incontinence if both parents wet the bed as children, reducing to 4 in10 if only one parent wet the bed. If genetically determined – most children will show a spontaneous resolution around the same age that their parent achieved continence. While the nasal spray can be very effective in the short-term, the problem is that once you stop using the medication the bedwetting returns. Unfortunately the conditioning alarm does not work with all children although I find its success depends to a certain extent on the amount of support received (usually from a continence specialist) as well as how motivated children are to be dry. Some parents have reported better outcomes when combining this with other forms of treatment such as hypnotherapy or chiropractic manipulation. Waking children is no longer recommended as it can condition the bladder into emptying at a certain time each night and it rarely results in a child becoming dry. As a parent dealing with multiple sets of wet sheets I fully appreciate your desire to have all four boys in absorbent pants at night. Ultimately the decision to wear DryNites needs to come from the child, forcing a child to wear them will only add to their feelings of embarrassment. There is a section on the DryNites website devoted to children – your older boys may find it helpful to read though this. Point out to them that these are designed for boys up to age 15, and can be used for sleepovers without the concern of being embarrassed in front of their friends. Many children like the fact they can manage their bedwetting themselves as they can dispose of their DryNites in the morning without anyone else in the family having to know whether or not they have wet. Good luck!

Ask Dr Cathrine a question