Bedwetting is usually thought of as a little kid problem, but guess what? It can totally happen to teenagers too. And if your teen is dealing with it, you’re definitely not alone! Nighttime accidents - also called nocturnal enuresis - are way more common than people think.

The good news? There are plenty of ways to handle it and even stop it for good.

Why Do Some Teens Still Wet the Bed?

There are a bunch of reasons why bedwetting might still be happening. Understanding what’s going on can make the whole situation feel a little less frustrating.

Bladder Still Catching Up

Sometimes, a teen’s bladder just hasn’t fully matured yet. It might be smaller than usual or not quite strong enough to hold urine all night long.

Super Deep Sleepers

Some teens sleep so deeply that their brain doesn’t wake them up when their bladder is full. This isn’t laziness—it’s just the way their body works!

Hormones at Play

Our bodies produce a hormone called ADH that slows down urine production at night. If there’s not enough of it, the bladder fills up too fast, and accidents can happen.

It Runs in the Family

If a parent had bedwetting issues as a kid or teen, there’s a higher chance their child might experience it too. Genetics play a big role!

Stress and Anxiety

Big life changes, school stress, or social pressures can mess with the body in surprising ways—including bladder control. The mind and body are super connected!

Medical Reasons

Sometimes, medical conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs), diabetes, or even constipation can lead to bedwetting. If it starts suddenly, it’s worth checking in with a doctor.

Too Much Liquid Before Bed

Drinking a ton of water, soda, or juice before bedtime can fill up the bladder quickly. Caffeine and sugary drinks don’t help either!

5 Tips For Talking to Your Teen About Bedwetting (Without Making It Awkward!)

Bringing up bedwetting with your teen can feel a little awkward, but it doesn’t have to be! Here’s how to keep the convo easygoing and supportive.

1. Let Them Know It’s Normal

Make sure your teen knows they’re not weird or the only one dealing with this. Loads of teens experience bedwetting, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.

2. Keep It Chill

No lecturing, no guilt-tripping—just a calm, caring chat. Try asking open-ended questions like, “Have you noticed any patterns with bedwetting?” or “Do you think stress might be a factor?”

3. No Blame, No Shame

Bedwetting isn’t something teens can control, so getting frustrated or punishing them won’t help. Instead, focus on finding solutions together.

4. Respect Their Privacy

This can be a sensitive topic, so don’t bring it up in front of family or siblings unless they’re comfortable talking about it.

5. Work Together on Solutions

Rather than just telling them what to do, involve them in the process. Ask, “Do you think trying a bedwetting alarm might help?” or “Should we adjust your nighttime routine?”

How to Stop Bedwetting: What Actually Works?

If your teen is ready to tackle bedwetting, there are plenty of things to try! Here are some of the best ways to manage and even stop it completely.

Try a Bedwetting Alarm

These little gadgets detect moisture and wake your teen up when they start to go. Over time, their brain starts waking up on its own before an accident happens. Pretty cool, right?

Bladder Training

During the day, try having your teen hold their urine for a little longer each time they feel the urge to go. This can help strengthen the bladder and improve control.

Watch Fluid Intake

Encourage drinking plenty of water during the day, but cutting back in the evening—especially on caffeine and sugary drinks.

Set a Nighttime Routine

Make sure they go to the bathroom right before bed. Some teens also find it helpful to set an alarm to wake up once in the middle of the night to go.

Medications (If Needed)

If nothing else seems to help, a doctor might suggest medication like desmopressin, which can reduce nighttime urine production.

Reduce Stress

If stress or anxiety seems to be part of the problem, encourage relaxation techniques like deep breathing, journaling, or talking things out with a trusted friend or therapist.

Treat Any Underlying Medical Issues

If your teen has frequent UTIs, constipation, or other medical concerns, treating those problems might help stop bedwetting too.

Build A Defence Kit!

Have a kit of all the products that work for your teen to prevent leaks or wet beds! Waterproof mattress covers or bedsheets and absorbent underwear can make things a lot easier while working on solutions.

It Could Just Be a Phase

Teen bedwetting might be frustrating, but it’s usually temporary! Most teens grow out of it, and with the right strategies, it can be managed or even stopped completely.

As a parent, the best thing you can do is offer support, encouragement, and a little patience. Remind your teen that this is just one small part of their life, and it does not define them. With the right approach, they’ll get through this—and so will you!