Urinary incontinence during the day is called diurnal enuresis and is much more common in girls like your daughter. There are a number of causes of daytime wetting including bladder infections, an overactive bladder, infrequent voiding, stress or emotional trauma as well as developmental delay. Strong smelling urine can be an indicator of a urinary tract infection so it is important that you make an appointment with your doctor. You do not mention in your question whether her urinary incontinence is something new or she has experienced this over many years. Any form of regular incontinence at this age needs to be checked out by a GP. There are a number of treatments available, their effectiveness will depend on the cause – your GP will be able to discuss these with you. In the meantime you could encourage her to urinate more regularly, such as every two hours, to avoid wetting. It’s good to avoid caffeine or other foods or drinks that you suspect may contribute to her incontinence. Get her to take her time when using the toilet – relax her muscles and fully empty her bladder. Daytime wetting can be particularly embarrassing for school-age children and more difficult for parents to deal with. As with bedwetting, adolescents who experience daytime incontinence typically have no control over what is happening so punishment will only make her feel worse. If other children are able to smell her she may be the subject of teasing and ridicule – so it is important that you provide as much support as possible and gently discuss with her the importance of good hygiene.

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