Question

A child of eight years old cannot hold their urine before urination, often with several drops of urine dripping down, and the shorts are frequently stained with a footprint-sized wet mark, which has an odor, but there is no bedwetting at night. I would like to know what the cause is, whether it needs medical treatment, or if it will naturally improve with age.

Answer

Urinary incontinence is common in young children, especially since the urination function is not fully developed until around age four. Here are some suggestions:

  • Cultivate a habit of urinating at regular intervals, and do not scold the child for wetting their pants.
  • Choose underwear without seams and with a more loose fit.
  • Keep the genital area clean, and wipe from front to back after using the bathroom.
  • Limit fluid intake after four in the afternoon, and try to have a dry and light dinner.
  • Adjust fluid intake habits; eating more naturally leads to more frequent urination.
  • Urinary incontinence can sometimes be related to mental state, and may be more noticeable in unfamiliar environments.
  • It may be related to bladder function, and can temporarily try using Six Flavors of Earth Tonic.