Constipation and Bedwetting: The Hidden Connection
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Constipation and Bedwetting: The Hidden Connection
If you’re a parent quietly changing sheets night after night, wondering why your child still wets the bed, you’re not alone. Bedwetting (also known as nocturnal enuresis) is more common than many people realise, and it can be incredibly frustrating, especially when everything else in your child’s development seems on track.
So what’s the link? Let’s break it down.
A Full Bowel Leaves No Room for the Bladder
The bladder and bowel sit side by side in the pelvis—so when the bowel is overloaded with stool, it can literally squish the bladder. This reduces how much urine the bladder can hold and increases pressure, especially at night when the bladder is trying to fill.
Imagine trying to blow up a balloon in a crowded box—that’s what it’s like for the bladder when the bowel is too full.
Constipation Can Irritate the Bladder
When the rectum stretches due to a backlog of stool, it can also irritate nearby nerves. The bladder may respond by becoming overactive—sending signals to empty even when it’s not full, or contracting suddenly without warning.
This is known as detrusor overactivity, and it can cause both daytime urgency and nighttime bedwetting.
Signs Your Child Might Be Constipated (Even If They're Still Going)
- Soiling or sudden urges
- Poor appetite or tummy pain
- Skid marks in underwear
- Large or infrequent poos
- Very frequent poos
- Straining or pain when going
💡 Want to track your child’s bowel habits? Download our free Bowel Diary here, and our Bristol Stool Chart to identify poo types.
What Can You Do?
If you suspect constipation might be contributing to your child’s bedwetting, the first step is to have their bowel function properly assessed. Even kids who poo every day can still have stool buildup that’s affecting their bladder. A pediatric physiotherapist, GP other other health professional can help identify signs of retained stool or incomplete emptying. Once assessed, treatment usually starts with simple strategies like increasing fluid and fibre intake, encouraging regular toilet sits (especially after meals), and using a footstool to support proper poo posture. In some cases, medical treatment such as a short course of laxatives may be recommended. Physiotherapy can also help improve emptying, reduce withholding, and teach calming techniques to support the nervous system. Addressing constipation is often the game-changer for improving nighttime dryness.
Need help figuring out if this is the missing piece for your child? You can book an appointment with one of our pediatric pelvic health physiotherapists here.
Disclaimer:
The information in this blog is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor, pediatrician, or qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your child’s health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.
Lisa Moffatt
Physiotherapist - Paediatric Pelvic Health
Lisa is a passionate paediatric pelvic health physiotherapist with a special interest in helping children and teens overcome bedwetting and toileting challenges. She takes a warm, evidence-based approach, working closely with families to uncover the root causes and create practical, achievable treatment plans. Lisa believes in empowering both children and their caregivers with knowledge, support, and a sense of confidence.
