• Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a motion disorder that appears early in life. Symptoms can include muscle weakness, poor coordination and loss of sensation. Cerebral Palsy can contribute to incontinence in a plethora of ways, including the inability to notice a full bladder, bladder spasms, enuresis (nighttime incontinence), bladder leakage and frequent urination. 

• Constipation

Constipation is a common reason for urinary incontinence and occurs when stool remains too long or moves too slowly in the colon. There is a close relationship between the muscles and nerves that control bladder functions and those that control bowel movements. In addition, the bladder and the colon are close together in the body. Large amounts of stool in the colon can put pressure on the bladder which can cause the bladder to not fill as much as it should, or cause the bladder to contract when the bladder is not supposed to contract. This large amount of stool can also cause the bladder to not empty well. All of these problems can lead to daytime wetting, nighttime wetting and urinary tract infections.

• Developmental Delays

Developmental delays, such as Down’s Syndrome, are linked to cognitive disorders that can impact a child’s ability to potty train or control urination/bowel movements. Contact a healthcare professional to learn more about ways to effectively potty train your child with a developmental delay, and to determine if your child’s incontinence is caused by their physical condition. 

• Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD)

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD), is a common condition that is often characterized by the inability to concentrate, control impulses or be in social situations. The inability to concentrate may contribute to urinary incontinence. Children with ADD/ADHD experience bladder leakage and may wet the bed because they have a lower rate of compliance when it comes to potty training and self-managing their restroom needs. They also may not notice the urge to urinate when it occurs. While children with ADD/ADHD can become continent, it can take months or sometimes years of dedicated practice. 

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Also referred to as PTSD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a psychiatric disorder defined as the difficulty processing and recovering from a terrifying or incredibly stressful event. While it isn’t intimately linked with incontinence, heightened stress after a traumatic event can cause accidental leakage of the bladder or total emptying of the bladder. Children with PTSD may need incontinence supplies, along with regular therapy and medication to process their emotional and physical symptoms. 

• Spina Bifida

Spina Bifida is a physical condition where the spine doesn’t properly form during fetal development, causing neural defects. Children who have Spina Bifida could experience urine leakage, inability to realize a full bladder or full emptying of the bladder. While you can consult a doctor to manage symptoms, children with severe Spina Bifida may need incontinence supplies for the entirety of their lives.