Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis)
Disease Information
Treatment & Care
In most cases, if a child presents with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis and otherwise unremarkable history and physical exams, the cause of the enuresis is generally not pathological and can be treated with behavioral therapy.
Laura Weissman, MD, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics
What are the treatments for bedwetting?
Keep in mind that in most cases, bedwetting resolves itself without specific treatment. Sometimes simple measures, such as sticker charts or an alarm to wake your child if wetting is happening, can be helpful. Bedwetting is not harmful to your child in any way other than its impact on self-esteem.
If your child is embarrassed to attend camp or a sleepover, you may want to talk with your pediatric urologist about some of the following therapies:
- behavior modification (for example, no fluids after 6 pm)
- conditioning therapy
- drug therapy that includes DDAVP, which replaces the natural hormone vasopressin
- psychotherapy
For more information
- See our page on Urinary Incontinence.
- Learn about our dedicated Voiding Improvement Program.
