Children's Continence
Overactive Bladder in Children
Does your child suddenly rush to the toilet, or struggle to make it there in time? An overactive bladder is common, and physiotherapy may help.
- No referral required
- Child-friendly approach
- Evidence-based care
- Albany, WA
About this condition
What is an overactive bladder?
An overactive bladder happens when the bladder muscle contracts before it's full, creating a sudden, hard-to-control urge to wee. It's one of the most common bladder conditions in children — a recognised medical condition, not laziness or 'leaving it too late' — and most children improve with the right assessment and treatment.
Signs to look for
Your child may…
- Suddenly rush to the toilet
- Wee more than eight times a day
- Cross their legs or squat to hold on
- Wiggle, dance or fidget when needing to go
- Leak before reaching the toilet
- Pass only small amounts
- Wake overnight needing to wee
- Avoid drinking for fear of accidents
Why it happens
Why it happens
- Bladder muscle overactivity
- Constipation (a full bowel presses on the bladder)
- Delaying toileting while busy playing
- Incomplete bladder emptying
- Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction
- Habits like going 'just in case' or drinking too little
How we help
How we help
- Healthy bladder habits
- Timed toileting
- Gentle bladder retraining
- Fluid optimisation (not just drinking less)
- Constipation management
- Age-appropriate pelvic floor & toileting education
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When to seek help
Consider an assessment if your child:
- Rushes to the toilet or uses holding manoeuvres
- Has daytime wetting or wets the bed with daytime symptoms
- Wees more than eight times a day
- Has constipation or recurrent UTIs
- Avoids drinking, or is worried or embarrassed
Get started
Ready to take the next step?
We'll help your child build bladder confidence and get back to school, sport and sleepovers without worrying about the nearest toilet.
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