Is Wetting the Bed Normal?

After potty training, did you think your days with diapers were over? Are you concerned about your child’s inability to stay dry overnight? Many parents wonder what may be going on when their child continues to wet the bed well past his or her toddler years.

As with any concern about your child, always discuss the issue with your child’s doctor or pediatrician. The physician may want to examine your son or daughter to rule out any underlying medical condition. A urine sample may be requested to test for a possible urinary track infection, UTI, or other problems.

Typically, all results from the exam will come back normal. Your child is a very healthy and normal youngster. This excellent news may leave you happy yet confused. If nothing is wrong, then what is a parent to do?

Parents are usually surprised to know that it is not uncommon for children to wet the bed until around eight years old. The bedwetting situation seems to occur more often in families with a history of similar bedwetting issues. If you or your spouse had to deal with such a circumstance, you may not be as shocked to find out this information.

If you are familiar with the situation, you will know the embarrassment sometimes felt by a child experiencing such nighttime troubles. Some parents tease their child about being a “baby”. Do your best to avoid ridicule or negative attitudes about the situation at hand.

Try to avoid discussing the issue by using words such as “problem” or “mess”. When a parent is faced with repeated laundering of pajamas and bedding, it can be difficult to avoid comments that are negative and blaming, even when we don’t intend to say such things.

An inexpensive waterproof mattress cover is undoubtedly worth the money. This fabulous investment will help to protect your child’s mattress from hard to remove stains and odors. Mattress covers are available at stores like Wal-Mart and Kmart for about $20.