Dr. Jay Schwartz on Treating Bedwetting

Facts on Bedwetting

• Most children wet the bed at some point during toilet training.

• Children may require medical attention for bedwetting, however, if they seem to be experiencing emotional distress or if other behavioral problems accompany bedwetting.

• In these cases, taking the child to see a doctor can illuminate underlying conditions or experiences that may have triggered the bedwetting.

When bedwetting happens as a normal part of child development, parents have great latitude in offering treatment. Generally speaking, treatments should…

• Be actively discussed with the child. Including children in the treatment process empowers them to take control of their situation and prevents power struggles between parents and children.

• Avoid punishment or shame. These tend to be counterproductive, leading to anxiety that can manifest as further bedwetting. Rather, parents should be supportive and listen to children’s concerns and suggestions for addressing the problem.

• Allow the child to develop the skill of sleeping through the night without wetting the bed. This might involve teaching children how to change and wash their own sheets or showing them how to put on dry pajamas.

About Dr. Jay Schwartz

Dr. Jay Schwartz runs his Frisco, Texas, pediatric practice with one guiding principle: He and his staff treat patients like their own children. This dedication has earned Dr. Schwartz accolades from Vitals.com, which presented him the Compassionate Doctor Award in 2010.