Enuresis for Dummies

Enuresis is a big, fancy word that actually isn't as complicated as it sounds. It's a medical term that doctors use to describe something that most people call "bedwetting." Basically, enuresis is when someone, usually a child, accidentally pees in their bed while they're sleeping. It's totally normal for most kids to have a little trouble controlling their bladder as they grow up, but sometimes it can be a more frequent problem that needs some extra attention and care.

There are two main types of enuresis: primary and secondary. Primary enuresis happens when a child has never been able to stay dry at night, while secondary enuresis occurs when someone who used to be able to stay dry at night suddenly starts having accidents again. It's important to talk to a doctor if enuresis becomes a persistent issue, because they can help figure out what's causing it and how to make it better.

Imagine your bladder as a bucket that fills up throughout the day, and when you're awake, you can go to the bathroom to empty it before it gets too full. But when you're sleeping, your brain and your bladder have to work together to make sure nothing spills out. Sometimes, our bodies just need a little more time to learn how to do that, and that's okay! It's totally normal to have some accidents while you're still learning, and there are lots of ways to help your body get the hang of it.