Bed Wetting (Nocturnal Enuresis): Causes, Symptoms & Homeopathic Treatment
Bed wetting—medically known as nocturnal enuresis—is a common concern among parents. While it is most frequently seen in children below the age of seven, it can sometimes continue into adolescence or even appear in adults. Fortunately, with proper understanding and the right approach, bed wetting can be effectively managed. Homeopathy, in particular, offers a gentle and holistic solution that addresses both physical and emotional factors.
This article covers causes, symptoms, homeopathic remedies, and home tips for managing bed wetting naturally.
What Is Bed Wetting?
Bed wetting refers to involuntary urination during sleep, especially at night. It is not a sign of laziness or poor toilet training. Many children simply require more time for their bladder control to develop fully.
There are two types of nocturnal enuresis:
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Primary Enuresis – The child has never been consistently dry at night.
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Secondary Enuresis – The child was previously dry for at least six months but has started wetting the bed again, often due to stress, infections, or emotional changes.
Common Causes of Bed Wetting
Understanding the cause helps in selecting the best treatment approach—especially in homeopathy, where individual symptoms guide remedy selection.
1. Delayed Bladder Maturation
In many children, the brain–bladder communication is still developing. They may not recognize the signal of a full bladder during sleep.
2. Deep Sleep
Some children are extremely deep sleepers and simply do not wake up when the bladder is full.
3. Genetic Influence
Research shows that if one parent experienced bed wetting, the child has a 40% chance of having the same issue. If both parents did, the chance rises to 70%.
4. Small Bladder Capacity
A smaller functional bladder means the child cannot hold urine for long at night.
5. Excessive Fluid Intake in the Evening
Consuming water, milk, or juices before bedtime can overload the bladder.
6. Constipation
A full bowel presses on the bladder, reducing its capacity and causing nighttime wetting.
7. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Infections irritate the bladder, causing frequent and urgent urination.
8. Emotional or Psychological Stress
Bed wetting may occur due to:
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Change of school
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New sibling
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Family stress
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Sleepover anxiety
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Fear or insecurity
9. Hormonal Imbalance
A deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) results in the kidneys producing more urine at night.
10. Underlying Medical Conditions (Rare)
Although less common, sleep apnea, diabetes, or neurological problems may contribute.
Symptoms Associated With Bed Wetting
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Wet bed sheets or pajamas in the morning
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Deep sleep and difficulty waking at night
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Frequent urination before falling asleep
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Strong-smelling urine
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Occasional daytime urgency
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Constipation or stomach discomfort
If symptoms appear suddenly or are accompanied by pain, burning, or fever, get the child evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Homeopathic Treatment for Bed Wetting
Homeopathy offers a safe, natural, and non-invasive approach to treating bed wetting. Remedies are selected based on the child’s physical symptoms, emotional nature, sleep patterns, and overall constitution.
Below are the most commonly used homeopathic medicines for enuresis (for educational purposes only):
1. Causticum
Best for
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Bed wetting during the first part of sleep
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Children with a weak bladder or dribbling during the day
Indications
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Emotional, sympathetic children
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Wetting worsens in winter
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May also have involuntary urination while coughing or sneezing
2. Equisetum
Best for
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Bed wetting without any underlying disease
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Constant urge to urinate
Indications
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Bladder irritation
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Daytime dribbling
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Nocturnal wetting despite light sleep
3. Kreosotum
Best for
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Bed wetting in deep sleepers
Indications
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Offensive or strong-smelling urine
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Wets bed multiple times a night
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Child often cries or wakes frightened before urinating
4. Sepia
Best for
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Bed wetting in shy, sensitive children
Indications
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Weak bladder muscles
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Child may feel embarrassed or withdrawn
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Useful in girls with urinary weakness
5. Lycopodium
Best for
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Bed wetting in children with fear of darkness or anxiety
Indications
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Wets bed in the early morning hours
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Digestive complaints like gas and bloating
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Lack of confidence despite cleverness
6. Pulsatilla
Best for
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Gentle, emotional children who seek support
Indications
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Bed wetting after emotional upsets
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Changeable mood
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Often worsens in warm rooms
7. Sulphur
Best for
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Bed wetting in restless, energetic children
Indications
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Wets bed around 5–6 AM
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Burning sensation during urination
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Child is warm-blooded and dislikes heat
How Homeopathy Helps
Homeopathy works by:
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Strengthening bladder muscles
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Regulating the sleep–wake cycle
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Improving nerve control
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Addressing emotional stress
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Treating underlying issues like constipation
Remedies are safe for long-term use, non-toxic, and suitable even for young children.
Home Remedies & Lifestyle Tips
Even with homeopathy, certain habits can greatly improve progress.
✔️ Limit evening fluid intake
Avoid giving large quantities of water or milk 2 hours before bedtime.
✔️ Night-time bathroom routine
Ensure the child uses the toilet before going to sleep.
✔️ Reduce caffeine and sugary drinks
Especially in older children and teens.
✔️ Treat constipation
Include fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
✔️ Use bed-wetting alarms
Very effective for children over age 7.
✔️ Maintain emotional support
Never blame or shame the child. Bed wetting is involuntary.
✔️ Use protective mattress covers
To reduce stress for both parent and child.
When to Seek Medical Help
Seek evaluation if:
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The child is over 7 and wets bed regularly
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Bed wetting begins suddenly
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Urination is painful or accompanied by fever
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There is daytime wetting too
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The child snores heavily or appears overly sleepy during the day
Conclusion
Bed wetting can be stressful for both children and parents, but it is a treatable condition. Understanding the cause and choosing the right approach—including homeopathic treatment, emotional support, and healthy routines—can make a significant difference. Homeopathy addresses the root of the problem by improving bladder control, sleep response, and overall emotional wellbeing, making it a popular natural choice for many families.
