We have only just started no nappies at night, as his night time nappy has always been full. He no longer wants to wear nappies at night (as his 8 year old brother doesn't wear them so he doesn't want to either now). He is wetting the bed every night, but I'm not sure whether to persevere or just stop because he is not ready. But if I stop, I don't want to discourage him. (I always tell him its ok, it was just an accident, he didn't mean to do it, but he always gets upset with himself because he wet the bed). So I'm not sure what to do. If I continue, would he eventually be dry at night, or could it go on for months (I don't want him to be upset every morning because the bed is wet). Or is he just not ready. If he wets the bed for say 2, 3 or 4 weeks every night would that mean he is not ready? Sorry...I'm just not sure what to do?
Thank you,
Julie
Hi Julie – one of the best indicators that a child is moving toward achieving nighttime continence is a reduction in the number of times he wakes-up wet. The fact that your son continues to wet every night is a sign that his body has not matured to a point where he is able to hold on until morning or wake-up in response to a full bladder. Until he begins to show signs of readiness I would continue to use absorbent pants, try using DryNites instead of nappies as these are more appealing to older children and look less like something babies wear. Keep reassuring him that this is not fault, it may be helpful to explain to him that children do not have a lot of control over their bodies while asleep which is why some people wet the bed, even when they try really hard not to. Children often find it reassuring when we explain to them how each of us is different, while some people’s bodies are really good at helping them to run fast, others are better at storing urine overnight. While most children his age will outgrow bedwetting on their own, if your son continues to wet the bed after he turns 6 I would recommend that you make an appointment with your GP just to rule out any possible underlying medical cause. If his bedwetting continues to be a source of embarrassment or concern, you may want to look into beginning some form of treatment – you should discuss this with your doctor.
Regards,
Dr Cathrine
Comments
Be the first to post a comment
Add a comment