Bedwetting Treatments
Time and patience are usually the best way for a child to outgrow bedwetting, but naturally you may want to know about other ways you can help. Bedwetting solutions range from simple tactics you can try at home to bedwetting treatments prescribed by a doctor.
Here are some bedwetting solutions to think about:
DryNites® Pyjama Pants
DryNites® Pyjama Pants give immediate protection and can be used alongside other treatments. Specially designed to look just like normal underwear, they are discreet and highly absorbent, helping your child get a restful night's sleep. Also available in boxer-style Sleep Shorts.
Motivational Therapy
A progress calendar that tracks dry nights is a way to encourage a child through bedwetting. It can work well if you wait until your child has experienced dry nights and put the calendar away for a while if progress slows down.
Limiting Fluids At Night
It could be something as simple as limiting fluids close to bedtime that works for your child. Try avoiding drinks - especially caffeinated or carbonated drinks – up to a couple of hours before bed. Make sure your child has plenty of liquid throughout the day and never deny a thirsty child a drink.
Sleep Conditioning
Bedwetting alarms - either a sensor pad placed on the mattress or a sensor attached to underwear - work by going off when urine is released. This will wake the child up and remind him/her that it's time to visit the loo. Ultimately this will sensitise the child to respond quickly and appropriately to a full bladder during sleep.
While sleep conditioning can be effective, it takes time to work. With a success rate of around 70%, it isn't the best solution for all and may be more suitable for older children (aged 7 and above.)
Medication
In some cases doctors may prescribe a medication such as desmopressin (available on prescription as a tablet or nasal spray) that reduces the amount of urine produced at night and therefore lessens the urge to urinate at night.
Bladder Conditioning
Your doctor might suggest some exercises to help strengthen the bladder. Stopping urine mid-stream can help strengthen a weak bladder muscle (sphincter) and holding urine for as long as possible during the day may be recommended to stretch the bladder.
Alternative Therapies
There are also many alternative therapies available to parents of children who wet the bed such as hypnotherapy, acupuncture, homeopathy and chiropractic.
Always speak to your doctor for advice, whichever treatment you're interested in using.
