Bedwetting, also known as enuresis nocturna, is a common problem in children, as well as adolescents and even adults. This can be very stressful for both the child and the parents. Yet many people do not immediately step to the doctor. This may be out of shame, or because they simply don't know when to go to the doctor with bedwetting.
In this blog we will tell you when it is wise to consult a doctor for bedwetting, what to expect at the doctor's office and how to prepare yourself properly. This way you will be prepared and make the right choice together with your doctor.
What is bedwetting?
Bedwetting means that a child of five years or older wets the bed at night, or a child of 7 years or older who wets the bed at least once a month without any other physical symptoms.
A distinction is made here between two forms of enuresis nocturna:
- Primary enuresis nocturna: The child has never been dry since birth.
- Secondary enuresis nocturna: The child was dry for at least six months but suddenly begins bedwetting.
Both forms can be stressful and require a different approach. In either case, it may be a good idea to involve the family doctor in bedwetting, especially if the problem persists for a longer period of time.
Why don't people go to the family doctor for bedwetting?
Many parents have doubts: is bedwetting really a medical problem? Will it go away on its own? And what can a family doctor actually do? This doubt is understandable, but not justified. The family doctor is an important link in bedwetting. He or she not only looks at the medical side, but also at the psychological and social aspects that may play a role.
When to go to the family doctor for bedwetting?
- Do you doubt whether you should take your child to the family doctor for bedwetting? If so, ask yourself the following questions:
- How often is your child wet at night?
- Does it happen only at night or also during the day?
- Are they small bits each time or really big puddles?
- How is the urine stream (does the child have to push, is the stream interrupted or weak, does it drip)?
- Is there constipation or pants pooping?
- Are there other physical symptoms, such as pain when urinating or blood in the urine?
Finally, it is important to consider whether your child has recently had to deal with other upsetting events (grandparents passed away, parents in divorce), it is important to have a complete picture of your child's situation. In addition, the child's general functioning may be influential. Does your child have friends at school, does he/she participate well in the group?
Bedwetting is hereditary
We know that bedwetting can be hereditary, so before going to the doctor, make sure to get a good picture of your own situation before. In doing so, ask yourself the following questions:
- At what age were you as a parent dry and what about grandparents?
- Did bedwetting occur in others in the family?
- How was the toilet training process during the day?
According to physician guidelines, bedwetting untreated has a good prognosis. It requires patience and restraint. Initially, the doctor will talk with you as parents and carefully examine the situation at home.
To best help the doctor, it is important to bring some information to the conversation. Think about:
- How often does your child urinate in a day?
- How much does your child drink and at what times?
- Is your child motivated to stay dry?
What does the family doctor do for bedwetting?
The family doctor usually starts with an extensive conversation with parents and child. The first step is often providing good information: what is bedwetting, how often does it occur, and what can you do about it?
If the bedwetting persists, the doctor may suggest keeping a diary or urination diary. In it you record when your child pees, how big the pee is and how much your child drinks. This helps to learn to recognize patterns.
Depending on the situation, the doctor may suggest one of several treatments:
Less intensive methods:
- Spreading fluid intake throughout the day.
- Improve toilet training during the day
- Going to the toilet at set times in the evening
More intensive methods:
- Bedwetting Alarm: A device that wakes the child as soon as he or she begins to urinate. This helps teach control (Recommended duration urologists and this method does not necessarily require you to see a doctor).
- Wake-up training: parents wake the child at night at set times to urinate.
- Behavioral therapy: Aimed at strengthening the child's motivation and self-confidence.
Conclusion GP and bedwetting
Bedwetting is a common problem that requires time, understanding and the right approach. Many parents wait too long before seeking help, while the family doctor can play a valuable role in finding the right solution for bedwetting. So don't wait too long if your child wets the bed. A good conversation with a family doctor can give you a lot of clarity and be the beginning of a relaxed and dry night!
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