Bed-wetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is much more common than many people realize. An estimated 5 to 7 million children in the United States wet their beds regularly. The majority of these children are boys. These children struggle daily with the shame, embarrassment, and the teasing brought on by their bed-wetting problem. Chances are your child will outgrow bed-wetting, but it could take some time. Only about 15% of bed-wetting children outgrow the disorder each year. Therefore, by the age of 15, 1% to 2% of bed-wetting children will still wet the bed. Some Possible Reasons for Bed-Wetting Heredity - Bed-wetting has been found to run in families, so if both parents wet the bed as children, there is a 77% chance that their children will too. Even if only one parent wet the bed, his or her child might also have the same problem. Hormones - Studies suggest some children who wet the bed don't produce enough of a hormone at night. This is called antidiuretic hormone and it helps concentrate urine so that the bladder doesn't overfill. There is Help for Bed-Wetting Simple changes in your child's routine or behavior may help your child sleep drier. In addition, there are treatments available. The most common options your doctor may recommend are listed below: Dietary Habits - If your child has a history of allergies, a change in diet may be beneficial. In addition, consider limiting beverages after dinner and remind your child to go to the bathroom before bed. Conditioning Therapy - Bed-wetting alarm devices attach to pajamas and are activated by moisture. Such products teach a child to wake up upon sensing a full bladder. These, too, may provide help. Medications - One medications commonly used to treat bed-wetting is DDAVP® (desmopressin acetate). It is now available in easy-to-take tablets DDAVP Tablets DDAVP (desmopressin acetate) is available in both tablet form and as a nasal spray. However, only the tablets have been proven safe and effective for long-term use. DDAVP tablets offer different treatment options for different types of patients. For younger patients with primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE), DDAVP provides a short-term option for dry nights. The tablets are ideal for special occasions, such as sleepovers, camps, and vacations. The once-daily tablets are discreet and easy-to-use and require no refrigeration or serum electrolyte level monitoring. DDAVP tablets provide a more long-term solution for older PNE patients. For kids ages 10 and older, the tablets can offer a bridge to maturity, or until they "grow out of" bed wetting. By safely supplementing the child's antidiuretic hormone (ADH) until they produce enough of their own, DDAVP tablets help children sleep drier, which can act to preserve self-image and improve self-esteem. Notice: Information on this web site is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use the information on this web site for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.