As common as it is, bedwetting remains a taboo issue making it embarrassing to admit or talk about. However, you should know that up to 20% of all 5-year-olds suffer from this, and 5% of 10-year-olds still suffer. This is not only an issue for children though. It is estimated that 1% of adults struggle with bedwetting as well*.

So, while bedwetting continues to be overlooked and quieted down, by addressing the issue and talking openly about it we might remove the shame of this topic.

CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES

There are various factors that can cause bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis. Contrary to popular belief they are not psychological, but the consequences can be many on an emotional level: low self esteem, stress, anxiety and psychological trauma.

SOME OF THE MOST COMMON CAUSES FOR BEDWETTING ARE:

- Immature bladder

- Lack of antidiuretic hormone, a hormone that slows down the urine production during the night

- Constipation

- High urine production

 - Sleep issues (sleep apnea combined with deep sleep) 

Although these are the most common causes, it is always a good idea to see a doctor to rule out other medical conditions.

FACTS:

- Twice as many boys as girls are bedwetters

- It can be hereditary

- Most children outgrow the problem 

A major concern for both the child and their parents is teasing and bullying. This, along with anxiety and shame, can have a huge impact on the child’s social life and happiness. 

The child often avoid sleepovers and trips together with other children, or even adults, in the fear of others finding out. This leads to the child feeling isolated and excluded.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT...

Talking about bedwetting is somewhat of a taboo subject and we want to change that. Bedwetting is a common issue that affects both children and adults, but we still don’t talk about it.

It would remove the stigma and help people feel less vulnerable and alone. It would be  common knowledge that bedwetting is something the individual can’t control and nothing they should be embarrassed about. 

It is important that parents, and other adults, make sure that the child knows he/she has nothing to be ashamed of. It’s not the child’s fault. This is why we want to raise this topic and make sure that we as a society don’t shy away from this subject.

We at Pjama have many years of experience when it comes to the topic of bedwetting. The reason we created Pjama was to help children (and adults) be able to attend activities without having to worry. This is something we have a big passion for; to be able to help those that suffer from bedwetting as well as their families.

Contact the Pjama Down Under Team (0433 996 344) or the Continence Foundation Free Helpline (1 800 33 00 66), and

Let's Talk About It!

 * According to The National Sleep Foundation and the Children’s Hospital of Boston