We all know keeping an eye on the health of our children is a top priority, but sometimes conditions like bladder dysfunction can fly under the radar.

It's essential to catch the signs and symptoms early to avoid any major complications down the road.

In this blog, we'll walk you through five telltale signs that your child might be dealing with bladder dysfunction and what next steps you and your family should take!

1. Does your child frequently urinate?

According to the American Academy of Paediatrics(AAP) [1], many trips to the bathroom can be indicative of bladder dysfunction. Here are some examples of what that could look like in your child’s life:

• During the daytime - this can interfere with regular day-to-day activities, such as school, playing and socialising (for tips on managing incontinence at school, check out our guide for parents and teachers here).
  
  
• During the nighttime - you might be finding that your child is getting up constantly throughout the night, which is disrupting their sleep pattern

While occasional episodes of frequent urination may not be concerning, persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

2. Sudden urges & accidental leaks

Another sign to watch out for is urgency and urinary accidents, particularly if your child is unable to hold urine until reaching the bathroom.

According to research published in Paediatric Nephrology, it can be a sign that an overactive bladder can disrupt daily activities and may lead to embarrassing accidents, especially in older children [2].

3. Persistent bedwetting

Bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is another common indication of bladder dysfunction in children. While bedwetting is normal in younger children who are still in toilet training, it should become a concern when it persists beyond the age of five or six as emphasised by the European Society for Paediatric Urology [4]. Be sure to keep an eye on your child's nighttime urinary habits and discuss any concerns with a healthcare professional to help identify any issues early on.

If your child is currently experiencing any level of urinary incontinence, our Magics Youth Pants have got you covered! Suitable for ages up to 15, they’re designed to mimic regular underwear, are dermatologically tested and are engineered to absorb liquid quickly- ensuring your child is kept dry throughout the day.

4. Expression of bladder discomfort or pain

Children experiencing bladder dysfunction may also complain of pain or discomfort while urinating. This feeling may come across as a:

• Burning sensation 
• A sharp pain 
• Tummy-aches
• Even a fever

These can also be symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder irritation [3]. It’s essential that if your child is going through these discomforts you consult their healthcare provider as soon as possible.

5. Changes in urine 

Last but not least, parents should keep an eye on changes in the colour or odour of their child’s urine. These changes may include:

• Turning darker or changing colour

• Changing to a cloudy appearance 

• Having a stronger odour 
  
  

Any of these may indicate the presence of an infection or other bladder-related problems. The Mayo Clinic recommends monitoring any changes in urine characteristics, especially if there are other urinary symptoms in the mix.

Recognising the signs of bladder dysfunction in children is crucial for early detection and intervention. By staying vigilant and addressing any concerning symptoms promptly, parents can help prevent complications and ensure their child is kept happy and healthy.

If you notice any of these signs in your child, be sure to reach out to their doctor. Remember, that keeping on top of these issues as soon as they arise can make a significant difference for you and your child.