Conquering Bedwetting: Non-Pharmacologic Methods for Managing Nocturnal Enuresis

Abstract

Bedwetting, also called nocturnal enuresis, is a common developmental problem in school-aged children. In a study by Van Tijen, Messer, & Namdar (1998), children ranked it as the third most stressful life event, after parental fighting and divorce. About 15% of affected children outgrow bedwetting on their own each year without medical intervention (Kiddoo, 2015), but inadequate knowledge and lack of support and guidance from family may lead to low self-esteem and mental distress in children dealing with this situation. Nonpharmacologic interventions like bedwetting alarms have a higher success rate (75%) and lower relapse rate (41%) than pharmacologic interventions (Monda & Husmann, 1995). This article discusses nonpharmacologic interventions for nocturnal enuresis: bedwetting alarms, motivational therapy, dietary modification, behavioral modification, and pelvic floor muscle training.