Yes, for many children it is normal. In Sub-Saharan Africa, like in other parts of the world, many children wet the bed into early childhood. About:

• 1 in 5 children aged 5 years still wet the bed
• 1 in 10 children aged 7 years
• By age 15, most children have outgrown it

Bedwetting is not the child’s fault. Possible causes include:

• Delayed bladder development
• Deep sleep: The child doesn’t wake when the bladder is full.
• Genetics: If parents were bedwetters, children are more likely to be.
• Stress or emotional factors: Such as moving homes, starting school, or family issues.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Constipation
• Diabetes (rare but important to rule out).

What Parents Can Do

✅ Be patient and supportive:

• Avoid blame, shame, or punishment
• Praise the child for dry nights

✅ Encourage healthy habits:

• Limit drinking water 1–2 hours before bedtime
• Make sure the child uses the toilet before going to bed
• Create a calm bedtime routine

✅ Use practical measures:

• Protect the mattress with a plastic cover
• Keep clean clothes and sheets ready just in case
• Encourage regular toilet use during the day

✅ Talk to your child:

• Let the child know it’s not their fault
• Reassure them that many children experience this and get better with time

What Parents Should Avoid Doing to A bedwetting Child

• Do not abuse, blame or shout at the child
• Do not punish the child
• Do not excessively limit daytime fluids for the child
• Do not compare the child with other children
• Do not rely too much on drug treatment
• Do not completely ignore it especially if is beyond 7 years

When to See a Health Worker

Take your child to a clinic or hospital if:

• They suddenly start bedwetting after being dry for months
• They complain of pain while urinating
• There is blood in the urine
• They are over 7 and still wet the bed regularly
• You are worried about emotional or behavioral problems

In some areas, nurses or doctors may recommend:

• Urine tests (to check for infection or diabetes)
• Simple behavioral treatments
• In other cases, medication

Cultural Considerations in Sub-Saharan Africa

• Stigma: Bedwetting may be linked to myths or shame in some communities. Talking openly about it helps remove stigma.
• School-aged children may face bullying or embarrassment, especially during boarding school.
• Traditional beliefs: While elders and traditional healers may offer support, always combine with medical advice for the best outcomes.

Remember

• Bedwetting is common, treatable, and not the child's fault
• Most children stop on their own
• Support, understanding, and simple changes can make a big difference

Where to Get Help

• Local health clinic or hospital
• Community health workers
• School health programs
• NGOs or health outreach programs working in child health