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Understanding Teenage Bedwetting: A Guide to Causes and Solutions

15 Nov, 2022

8 minutes Lire

Is your teenager still waking up to wet urine-soaked sheets, and you’re not sure why it’s happening or how to help? Teenage bedwetting can be triggered by a range of factors that are completely out of your teen’s control. We understand the emotional toll on both of you. Bedwetting can continue into the teen years, leaving families feeling like they’re alone. Your teen might avoid sleepovers, worry about family trips, or feel too embarrassed to talk about it.

But don’t worry, understanding the causes can help you take on the issue with patience and empathy. Let’s explore some of the most common reasons behind bedwetting in teens and how you can support your teen.

Is Teenage Bedwetting Normal?

Bedwetting is usually linked to younger kids, but it’s crucial to recognize that it can stick around into the teenage years. In fact, about 1-2% of U.S teens still struggle with it. It’s natural to feel concerned if your teenager is still wetting the bed, but know that other teens go through this, and with the right understanding and support, it can be managed.

Understanding Bedwetting During Adolescence and Puberty

Teenage bedwetting image

Bedwetting during puberty can be a frustrating challenge for both teens and their families. As adolescents undergo hormonal shifts, their bodies are enduring a major transformation that impacts everything from sleep to bladder control. Reasons for bedwetting may be due to:

Hormonal Changes/Puberty
Puberty is a time of hormonal changes, with the body adjusting, maturing, and growing.
Physical Development and the Bladder
During those rapid teenage growth spurts, the body works hard to adapt, but sometimes, the bladder struggles to keep pace. As the body grows, the bladder might not expand quickly enough, leaving it with less capacity to hold urine overnight.

For some teens, bedwetting happens because their bladder just isn’t fully developed to hold urine all night long. It might still be too small or unable to handle large amounts of urine over an extended period, leading to those frustrating nighttime accidents. The good news? This typically sorts itself out as the bladder matures with age.
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Teenagers often change sleep patterns during puberty, making it harder to wake up when the bladder sends its signals. This deep sleep is a normal part of growing up, but it can leave the body slow to respond to urgent cues. Add in irregular sleep schedules and the sheer exhaustion from jam-packed days, and the chances of bedwetting can creep up during this phase of life.
Some teens may not wake up to go to the bathroom when their bladder is full. This is especially common during adolescence when sleep cycles may become even deeper.
Emotional Stress and Anxiety
Puberty is not just about growing taller or dealing with acne; it’s an emotional battle, too. Teens are under constant pressure with school deadlines and social drama. Stress can affect nighttime routines, which can therefore affect bedwetting. Additionally, pressure from school, friendships, or family struggles can take a physical toll, sometimes affecting bladder control at night.

What to Do If Your Teenager Still Wets the Bed?

As a parent, you want to fix the issue with bedwetting, but patience and understanding are key. This isn’t something your teen can control. Deep sleep, bladder development, and even hormones all may play a role in these nighttime accidents. What matters most is creating a supportive environment where they feel reassured as they work through it.

Here are some bedwetting solutions:

Encourage Open Communication: Let your teens know they’re not alone and that bedwetting is more common than they might think. Avoid blame or shame.
Track Patterns & Identify Triggers: Keep a log of bedwetting episodes, noting fluid intake, diet, stress levels, and sleep habits to spot any trends.
Adjust Fluid Intake & Diet: Encourage hydration earlier in the day while reducing evening fluids, especially caffeine and sugary drinks.
Establish a Nighttime Routine: Ensure they use the bathroom before bed and consider setting a gentle alarm for a scheduled nighttime bathroom break.
Address Stress & Anxiety: If stress is a factor, encourage relaxation techniques like deep breathing, journaling, or talking to a trusted counsellor.

How Parents Can Make a Difference

During this time, reassure your child that it is not their fault, help them feel seen, and guide them toward confidence during this time.

Have an Honest Conversation
Opening the lines of communication is crucial when confronting bedwetting during adolescence. Find a moment to sit down with your child and reassure them that bedwetting can happen and is not something to feel ashamed of. Encourage them to voice any fears or concerns they might be carrying. By creating a judgment-free zone, you’ll show them they’re not alone in this, and that you’re right there, ready to support them every step of the way.
Choose Words That Lift Them Up
The language you use can shape how your child sees themselves and the situation. Focus on solutions and encouragement to keep the mood uplifting. Say things like, “We’ll figure this out together” or “This is just a phase, and you’re doing great.” These affirmations can ease embarrassment and build their confidence. Celebrate small victories, like a dry night, with genuine enthusiasm. Each win, no matter how small, is a step forward and a reason to feel proud.

Goodnites® Helps Teens Sleep Soundly During Bedwetting

Teenage bedwetting can be a challenging and emotional experience, but with the right support, your teen doesn’t have to navigate this journey alone. Goodnites® XXL Nighttime Underwear offers a discreet and reliable solution that can help your teen feel more confident and comfortable as they work toward overcoming bedwetting. Here are some key features:

Absorbency: Goodnites® Nighttime Underwear helps boys and girls stay dry
Odor Absorbing: Helps your teen stay fresh and confident, even during social situations.
Comfortable Fit: Soft and stretchy like underwear for comfortable fit
Variety of Sizes: Available in sizes XS to XXL to fit up to 165 lbs. As always, consult with your doctor for any bedwetting concerns.

This content should not substitute medical advice from your personal healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis or treatment.