Nighttime Urinary Incontinence in Children: Causes and Traditional Treatment Methods
Nighttime urinary incontinence, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is a fairly common condition in children aged 4 to 12, particularly among boys. During sleep, involuntary urination may occur one to four times per night. In most cases, children do not feel the urge to urinate and continue sleeping in a wet bed. Bedwetting is generally considered a medical concern after the age of four, especially if a child wets the bed more than once per month.
Causes of Nighttime Urinary Incontinence
The causes of nocturnal enuresis are varied and may differ from one child to another. Common contributing factors include:
Nervous system immaturity or emotional stress
Genetic predisposition (family history of bedwetting)
Structural or functional abnormalities of the urinary bladder
Delayed development of bladder control
Hormonal factors affecting nighttime urine production
Regardless of the suspected cause, it is essential to consult a pediatrician or healthcare provider to rule out underlying medical conditions and determine the most appropriate course of action.
Emotional Support and Parenting Approach
In many cases, proper daily routines, supportive upbringing, and a thoughtful approach to the child’s emotional needs can significantly improve the condition. It is crucial to remember that children do not wet the bed intentionally. Punishing, scolding, or shaming a child can increase anxiety and worsen the problem. Instead, parents should provide reassurance, patience, and encouragement.
Creating a calm bedtime routine and maintaining a supportive home environment play an important role in recovery.
Identifying Patterns in Bedwetting
Some children tend to urinate around midnight, while others do so closer to early morning. Identifying this pattern can help guide dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
If Bedwetting Occurs Around Midnight
Parents are advised to:
Avoid giving fruit after dinner, especially apples, as they may increase nighttime urination
Limit fruit juices and sweet drinks in the evening
Reduce the use of vegetable oils at dinner
A traditionally recommended dish includes finely chopped root vegetables (such as carrots) mixed with a small amount of sesame oil. This dish can be given daily in small portions. Buckwheat porridge is also considered beneficial and may be included regularly in the child’s diet.
If Bedwetting Occurs Toward Morning
In this case:
Lightly cooked vegetables with a very small amount of salt may be given
After dinner, the child may have stewed apples or a small amount of warm apple juice
Buckwheat porridge should be limited in the evening
Lifestyle and Daily Routine Recommendations
Children should be encouraged to:
Participate in physical activities and sports
Spend less time watching television or using electronic devices
Follow a structured daily schedule
Fluid intake should be limited after 5:00 p.m., except for physician-approved herbal teas. About 30 minutes before bedtime, a small piece of bread with a pinch of salt may be given. This routine is traditionally continued for up to 40 days.
Sleeping position may also play a role. Bedwetting often occurs when a child sleeps on their back. Parents may gently encourage side sleeping. One traditional method involves wrapping a towel around the child’s waist before sleep, with a firm knot positioned at the back to prevent rolling onto the back during the night.
Traditional Remedies (Informational Overview)
Various folk remedies have been traditionally used to help reduce symptoms of nighttime urinary incontinence. These methods should not replace professional medical treatment and should be discussed with a healthcare provider before use.
Herbal Infusion for Involuntary Urination
A traditional mixture includes red currant berries, lingonberry leaves, and yarrow herb. These are boiled in water, steeped, strained, and consumed in small portions several times a day.
Cold Water Hardening Procedures (For Older Children)
Children aged 8 and older were traditionally encouraged to walk in cold water up to the knees for 3–5 minutes, followed by light running to warm up. Hand immersion in cold water for short periods was also practiced. These procedures were typically done daily for at least one week, alongside herbal infusions such as yarrow tea.
⚠️ These practices should only be considered with medical approval and appropriate supervision.
Strengthening the Body
Infusions and jelly made from dried blueberries were traditionally used to support general health and bladder control.
Plantain Leaf Infusion
Several plantain leaves are steeped in boiling water and given in small spoonfuls multiple times per day.
Yarrow Herbal Decoction Before Sleep
A mild yarrow infusion was traditionally consumed before bedtime to help reduce nighttime urination.
Important Medical Considerations
While traditional medicine offers cultural insight and historical approaches, modern medicine emphasizes that persistent bedwetting requires medical evaluation. Conditions such as urinary tract infections, diabetes, sleep disorders, or psychological stress may need targeted treatment.
Parents should seek professional advice if:
Bedwetting continues beyond age 6–7
The child experiences pain, burning, or daytime incontinence
There is a sudden return of bedwetting after a dry period
Emotional distress or behavioral changes are present
Final Reassurance
Nighttime urinary incontinence is a common and treatable condition. With patience, emotional support, healthy routines, and appropriate medical care, most children outgrow bedwetting naturally. A calm and understanding approach from parents is often the most effective part of treatment.
