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Accidents Happen: Learn More About Bedwetting

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Bedwetting (also called nighttime enuresis) is very common. Take this quiz to see what you know and learn how to support your child.

Question 1: At what age is it still common for children to wet the bed?
A. 12 years old
B. 4 years old
C. 7 years old
D. 10 years old

Question 2: True or False: Bedwetting is usually caused by laziness or bad behavior.

Question 3: Which of these can increase the chances of bedwetting?
A. Having a parent who experienced bedwetting
B. Being constipated
C. Stress or life changes
D. All of the above

Question 4: True or False: Most children who wet the bed will eventually grow out of it on their own.

Question 5: When should you talk to a doctor about bedwetting?
A. If your child is under five years old
B. If it happens once a month
C. If your child was dry for months and suddenly starts wetting again
D. Never, it’s always normal

Question 6: Which of these could be a medical cause of bedwetting?
A. Bladder infection
B. Diabetes
C. Constipation
D. All of the above

Question 7: How can you help your child reduce the chances of bedwetting?
A. Encourage hydration during daytime hours rather than the evening
B. Use the bathroom right before sleep
C. Avoid punishment or shaming
D. All of the above

Question 8: True or False: Medications are the first step for treating bedwetting.

Question 9: What should you do if the problem persists?
A. Ignore it
B. Use punishment
C. Schedule an appointment with a pediatric urologist
D. Figure it out on your own

Bedwetting is common and it is treatable.
If you are concerned about your child’s bedwetting, WashU Medicine pediatric urologist Hubert Swana, MD, and nurse practitioners Renee Warmbrodt, MSN, CPNP and Christina L. Stephan-Stark, MSN, CPNP, are here to help. Call 314-454-6034 for an appointment. Check your quiz score below.

Correct Answers:

  • Question 1: At what age is it still common for children to wet the bed?
    • Correct Answer: C. 7 years old
      Bedwetting is common even at age seven.
  • Question 2: True or False: Bedwetting is usually caused by laziness or bad behavior.
    • Correct Answer: False
      Children do not wet the bed on purpose. It is often related to deep sleep, bladder development or family history.
  • Question 3: Which of these can increase the chances of bedwetting?
    • Correct Answer: D. All of the above
      Genetics, constipation and stress can all play a role.
  • Question 4: True or False: Most children who wet the bed will eventually grow out of it on their own.
    • Correct Answer: True
      In many cases, bedwetting resolves naturally as children develop.
  • Question 5: When should you talk to a doctor about bedwetting?
    • Correct Answer: C.
      Sudden changes, especially after months of dryness, may need a medical check-up.
  • Question 6: Which of these could be a medical cause of bedwetting?
    • Correct Answer: D.
      While most cases are normal and don’t require intervention, infections and other health issues can contribute and should be evaluated by a health-care provider.
  • Question 7: How can you help your child reduce the chances of bedwetting?
    • Correct Answer: D.
      Simple routines and positive support can make a big difference.
  • Question 8: True or False: Medications are the first step for treating bedwetting.
    • Correct Answer: False
      Medications are typically used after other strategies have been tried.
  • Question 9: What should you do if the problem persists?
    • Correct Answer: C.
      Medical support is key. A WashU Medicine pediatric urologist can guide you through the next steps.