Bedwetting Causes, Facts, & Fiction

What causes bedwetting? Find out the truth behind common bedwetting misconceptions and get bedwetting advice.

Bedwetting Facts

In most cases, experts aren't really sure what causes bedwetting or why it stops, but according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the problem is usually related to either:

Having an underdeveloped bladder that can't hold urine all night

Not being able to recognize that the bladder is full, wake up, and go to the bathroom.

Kids who wet the bed often had a parent who wet the bed too

More on the Inheritance Factor

Experts do know that the problem is often inherited. "If both parents had a bedwetter in the family, there's a 77 percent chance that your child will wet the bed," says child psychologist Edward Christophersen, pediatrics professor in developmental and behavioral sciences of the Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri, and an expert in bedwetting issues.

More Bedwetting Facts

Enuresis affects about 40 percent of 3-year-olds and about 15 percent of 6-year-olds, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

About 5 percent of 10-year-olds are still wetting the bed at least occasionally, and some continue to wet the bed into adolescence.

Bedwetting Fiction

Experts all agree that bedwetting is NOT:

Something kids do on purpose

Always caused by drinking too much right before bedtime

A mental or behavior problem

A sign of laziness

Important Disclaimer: This information is not meant as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a doctor with questions about your or your child's condition. NickJr.com does not recommend or endorse specific tests, products, procedures, opinions, or other information provided by any sponsors or other third parties. Please also see NickJr.com's Terms of Use.

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