Frequent urination is not uncommon and, in general, should not be cause for alarm in teenagers experiencing puberty and its associated hormonal fluctuations. However, it is worth knowing what signs to look out for when it comes to your child’s bladder health and general well-being.
During puberty, teenagers experience a wide range of physical, emotional and psychological changes in their bodies. The hormones which are naturally released during puberty vary significantly between boys and girls, and how these hormones affect the individual is dependent on numerous factors such as age, health and personal development.
Boys typically start puberty between the age of 9 and 15, and girls start between the age of 7 and 13. In general, puberty is something each young person will experience, and one symptom that may occur is frequent urination.
Puberty can have an impact on your child’s bladder health. In most cases, this is due to changes in hormone levels that occur throughout the teenage years. As a result, some teenagers might experience various bladder issues, including:
Of all the major causes of frequent urination during puberty, a Urinary Tract Infection or (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections that occur during puberty. This is a condition where a person may have an increased urge to urinate; it is typically treated with antibiotics.
Bed-wetting through the teenage years is not uncommon as hormones change during puberty. Research suggests that teenagers may experience bed-wetting for multiple reasons including emotional and psychological factors such as hormonal imbalance, mood, trauma, diet, sleep routine, stress and anxiety. In certain cases, teenagers may sleep more deeply and not wake up in time for the bathroom.
Another cause of frequent urination or involuntary urination in teenagers is sporting injuries (running, gymnastics, high-impact sports) that may damage the pelvic floor muscles. Frequent urination can also be due to physical conditions such as teenage obesity, pressure on the bladder, constipation, hormone imbalance, cystic fibrosis or physical disability.
Frequent urination is not often a cause for concern, however, in teenagers, it can be symptomatic of a more serious health condition. If you are concerned your teenager is experiencing bladder health issues, consult with your general practitioner to discuss ongoing symptoms.
Frequent urination may be a sign of a urinary tract infection, diabetes, bladder cancer or endometriosis, so be sure to seek medical advice as needed.
Urinary incontinence is defined as the involuntary passing of urine and is also referred to as bladder weakness or an overactive bladder. This condition is not uncommon, with around 20,000 - 60,000 Australian teenagers experiencing some form of incontinence.
Urinary incontinence during puberty is unlikely to be caused by a severe medical condition with the kidneys or bladder. It is commonly occurring due to the brain not developing the appropriate control over bladder function.
If your teenager is experiencing frequent urination, urge control issues or any type of bladder incontinence, Ontex Healthcare has a range of junior continence products that are designed to manage the condition effectively. Each product in the range is comfortable, discreet and breathable, ensuring your teenager will not feel embarrassed whilst continuing with their usual daily routine.
Our junior range includes the Ontex Healthcare Comfy Junior Slip, the Comfy Junior Pants (4-7 years) and the Comfy Junior Pants (8-15 years). All products are dermatologically tested and work to provide optimal absorption. Frequent urination is nothing to be ashamed of and that is why Ontex Healthcare are here to help you and your teenager manage the symptoms and feel at ease.
Contact us today for a free sample or browse our online range here.
For concerns about your teenager’s general or bladder health during puberty, Ontex Healthcare recommends speaking to your family doctor.
References
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/puberty.html
https://www.continence.org.au/who-it-affects/teenagers-and-young-adults
https://www.news24.com/health24/medical/incontinence/incontinence-in-children/why-some-teenagers-also-suffer-from-incontinence-20190318
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/uti.html
