Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation for Bedwetting What Parents Should Know
Bedwetting can be tough—for the child, for the parent, and for the whole family. If your child still has wet nights despite trying alarms, medication, or behavioural strategies, you may have come across something called TENS. Here’s a clearer look at what it is, whether it works, and what to consider.
What is TENS / How might it work for bedwetting
TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. It means using a small device with electrodes placed on the skin to send gentle electrical pulses.
The idea is that stimulating certain nerves that are involved in bladder control might help the bladder “talk to” the nervous system more effectively—reducing involuntary bladder contractions, improving bladder capacity or control, or helping with the signals that wake a child when the bladder is full.
In bedwetting, most studies use parasacral TENS (electrodes placed over the sacral nerves) or sacral‐level stimulation.
What families might expect if trying TENS
If your physiotherapist has recommended trialing TENS here’s what you might see and should keep in mind:
Timeline of effects: It’s not usually an instant fix. Most studies run for several weeks (e.g. 6-10 weeks) of regular use. Gradual reduction in wet nights is more common than overnight dryness.
Frequency & intensity: Protocols vary. Some use TENS 3×/week for 20 mins; others use longer daily or overnight stimulation. Electrode placement, pulse duration, frequency matter.
Safety and side effects: TENS is generally safe when used properly. Side effects are rare, maybe occasional skin irritation where electrodes are placed. Jpurol+2InClinicalTrials+2
Combined approach works best: TENS isn’t always used alone. Many studies combine it with other treatments (alarms, behavioural strategies, lifestyle changes). So it’s part of a toolbox, not the sole strategy.
How physiotherapy (or a pelvic health specialist) can support
Your pelvic health physiotherapist can help make TENS more effective and safer:
Assessment first: Understanding the type of enuresis your child has, if there are daytime symptoms, bladder capacity, presence of constipation, sleep issues, etc. is important before starting TENS therapy
Electrode placement & device settings: Ensuring the TENS machine is set up properly (correct nerves, frequency, pulse duration, comfortable intensity).
Training & supervision: Teaching your child and family how to use it at home—how often, when, how to place electrodes; troubleshooting any discomfort or skin issues.
Monitoring progress: Keeping a “wet nights diary” to see if there are changes week by week. Adjusting settings or schedule if needed.
Integrating other therapies: Working on bladder habits, fluid timing, toileting behaviour, managing constipation, emotional support.
What we don’t yet know (or what to be cautious about)
TENS works better in some kids than others; it’s not guaranteed to achieve full dryness.
Studies vary a lot in how TENS is used (frequency, duration, placement), so it’s not yet clear what “the best protocol” is.
It tends to be used when first-line methods haven’t fully worked. So if your child hasn’t tried alarms, or managing fluids etc., those still matter.
In many cases, follow-up data is short term—so we don’t always know how long the benefits last.
When to talk to your doctor or physiotherapist about TENS
You might want to explore TENS if:
Your child still has frequent wet nights after trying alarms, behavioural strategies, or basic medical treatments.
You want to avoid or reduce medication side effects.
You’re looking for additional tools to help your child feel more confident, get better nights, and reduce the emotional burden.
Your physiotherapist is experienced in TENS or neuromodulation and can supervise or guide usage.
Wrap-up
TENS is an increasingly researched option for helping kids with bedwetting. It can reduce wet nights in many cases, especially when other treatments haven’t fully worked. It’s safe, non-invasive, and often able to be done at home under guidance.
If you're considering it, the best move is to talk to a specialist (a paediatric pelvic health physiotherapist or paediatric urologist) who understands the science, the equipment, and can tailor a plan to your child’s needs.
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