How to prepare for a video visit about Bedwetting (Enuresis) - Management

Audience: pediatric

Bedwetting, also called enuresis, is common in children and often improves with time. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand your child's bedwetting, discuss management options, and learn ways to support your child. During the visit, you can share your child's history, habits, and any concerns you have. Preparing for the visit will help make the conversation clear and productive. Remember, bedwetting is usually not caused by serious illness, but sometimes it needs more evaluation. This guide helps you get ready for a telemedicine visit about bedwetting, what to expect, and when to seek urgent care. It is educational and not a substitute for in-person medical advice.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden onset of bedwetting after a long dry period — seek prompt medical evaluation.
• Pain, burning, or blood when urinating — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• Fever, abdominal pain, or excessive thirst and urination — seek immediate care.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing bedwetting history and symptoms.
• Providing education on bedwetting management strategies.
• Guiding behavioral interventions and lifestyle changes.
• Determining if further in-person evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination or diagnostic tests.
• Diagnosing underlying medical conditions requiring lab or imaging.
• Managing emergencies or severe symptoms needing urgent care.
• Prescribing certain medications without prior in-person assessment.

What is Bedwetting (Enuresis)?

Bedwetting means your child urinates during sleep after the age when they usually stay dry at night. It is common in children under 7 years old and often improves without treatment. Bedwetting can happen due to deep sleep, small bladder capacity, or delayed development of bladder control. Sometimes, stress or illness can play a role.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before the visit, gather information to share with the healthcare provider:

Make sure your internet connection and device camera work well. Find a quiet, private place for the visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about your child's bedwetting and health history. They may guide you to observe your child's behavior or show any relevant signs on camera. The provider will discuss possible causes and suggest management strategies, such as:

They will also explain when in-person evaluation is needed.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some signs mean your child needs to see a healthcare provider in person quickly:

If these happen, contact your healthcare provider or emergency services promptly.

Tips to Support Your Child

Bedwetting can be stressful for children and families. Support your child by:

Remember, bedwetting often improves with time and care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note how many nights per week your child wets the bed.
• Record any daytime urinary symptoms or changes.
• List your child's medications and medical history.
• Ensure your device camera and microphone work properly.
• Find a quiet, private space for the video visit.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the management plan discussed during the visit.
• Monitor your child's bedwetting frequency and any new symptoms.
• Use suggested behavioral strategies consistently.
• Schedule follow-up visits as recommended.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Is bedwetting normal for my child's age?

Yes, bedwetting is common in children under 7 years old. Many children outgrow it naturally as their bladder control develops.

Can stress cause bedwetting?

Stress or changes at home or school can sometimes contribute to bedwetting, but it is usually not the only cause.

What can I do to help my child?

Encourage regular bathroom use during the day, limit fluids before bedtime, use waterproof mattress covers, and avoid punishment. Positive support helps your child feel safe and confident.

When should I be worried about bedwetting?

Seek medical advice if bedwetting starts suddenly after a long dry period, if your child has pain or blood when urinating, fever, or other concerning symptoms.

Can medications help with bedwetting?

Sometimes medications are used, but they are typically considered after behavioral approaches. Your healthcare provider will discuss if medication is appropriate.

Sources

1. Bedwetting in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / NIH.
2. Nocturnal Enuresis in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Bedwetting (Enuresis) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Enuresis (Bedwetting) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has urgent symptoms or worsening condition, seek immediate medical attention.