Bedwetting has few serious side effects, but one of the

physical discomforts it may cause is skin problems. Urine is a

mix of fluid and waste chemicals from the body. When left on

skin for a few hours in the night, it can irritate. Skin may

appear red initially, and may turn sore and flaky if the skin

is not treated. The skin will also thicken if the irritation is

not treated, eventually turning wrinkled and pale. Although not

dangerous, this type of skin irritation can be very painful for

a child.

Skin problems can affect any child who wets the bed, but the

problem is more aggravated in those who wet the bed often and

in those who wear absorbent products to collect the urine.

Genitals and buttocks can be affected. In those who wear

absorbent underpants, the leg bands and waist bands are often

the most irritated.

Once bedwetting is resolved, the rash and skin irritation it

causes will disappear as well. Until your child has stopped

wetting the bed, though, you can try to reduce the skin

irritation the problem causes. To prevent skin rashes and

soreness:

• Make sure the child washes each morning, especially after a

“wet” night. The skin affected by the area should be especially

well washed using a mild and moisturizing soap.

• Encourage your child to rinse the buttocks and genital area

when changing absorbent underpants and after waking up after

having wet the bed.

• Use a very soft sponge - not a harsh washcloth - on any

irritated skin area

• Some parents find that applying petroleum ointment to

affected areas and areas affected by urine is helpful

• Choose correct-fitting absorbent undergarments, if your child

uses them. Make sure that the waist band and the leg bands are

not too snug. Choose the most absorbent type you can and look

for a brand that offers a top layer that keeps moisture away

from the skin.

• Talk to your pediatrician if skin irritation continues. He or

she may be able to offer a medicated cream to soothe sore skin.