It is rare for bedwetting to be caused by a medical problem. There is often a family history of bedwetting. Bladder control isn't something we're born with - in babies the bladder automatically empties when it's full. But with time, children gradually learn to recognise when their bladder feels full and to control it. Most children are 'dry' during the day by the age of three and most are 'dry' at night by school age.
Most children eventually stop bedwetting without treatment.
But if help is needed, a health professional will first make sure there's no physical cause for the problem and then decide the most suitable approach. Bedwetting alarms These are usually placed in the child's bed, under the child. The alarm is triggered by leakage of urine and wakes the child up. This can help train a child to wake up when his or her bladder is full. Behavioural techniques These involve encouraging children to stay 'dry' by rewarding their progress with praise or small treats.