Children progress through different milestones as they age. Some start talking early, while others struggle to develop their language. Some grasp the concept of potty training in a few months, while others may struggle for years. Although these differences can occur for several reasons, one condition can make things especially challenging. Here, we'll go over everything you need to know about autism and incontinence, including a few tips to help autistic children start using the toilet.
What to Know About Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by a range of challenges in social interaction, communication, and behavior. The spectrum nature of autism means that its manifestations can vary widely, from mild to severe, with individuals displaying unique combinations of symptoms. These may include difficulties understanding and responding to social cues, repetitive behaviors, and intense interest in specific topics or activities. Additionally, autistic individuals may exhibit differences in sensory processing, such as heightened sensitivity to sounds or textures.
Understanding Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control that results in an involuntary leakage of urine. This can occur in small dribbles, or the entire bladder may empty. Other symptoms include urgency, frequency, nocturia, nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting), and difficulty emptying the bladder.
The Link Between Urinary Incontinence and Autism
Children with autism may be more likely to experience incontinence for several reasons. The primary reason is a general delay in potty training and bladder or bowel control. Some of the reasons that these two conditions occur concurrently include the following:
- Learning Delays — Children with autism often experience developmental delays, including those related to potty training. These delays can make it challenging for them to learn and consistently apply the skills needed for bladder and bowel control.
- Difficulty with Communication — Autistic children often tend to struggle with communication, making it more difficult to express their need to use the bathroom.
- Sensory Challenges — Many children with autism have heightened or diminished sensory processing, which can affect their perception of bodily signals, such as the need to urinate.
- Lack of Body Awareness — Children with autism may have difficulty with body awareness, making it hard for them to recognize and respond to the sensations that signal the need for bathroom use.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms — Gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation or diarrhea, are more common in children with autism, making it more difficult to successfully potty train.
Although children with autism may have special needs regarding potty training and managing incontinence symptoms, with some trial and error, they can overcome it.
Different Types of Incontinence with Autism
There are a few primary types of incontinence that are more prevalent in autistic children. These include urge, functional, and fecal incontinence.
Urge Incontinence
Urge incontinence occurs when a child experiences a sudden, intense need to urinate but is unable to reach the bathroom in time. In children with autism, this can be exacerbated by sensory processing issues or delayed recognition of bodily signals, making it difficult for them to respond quickly enough to avoid accidents.
Functional Incontinence
Functional incontinence happens when a child is physically capable of controlling their bladder or bowel but is unable to use the bathroom due to other factors, such as communication barriers, difficulty understanding when and where to go, or challenges in navigating their environment.
Fecal Incontinence
Fecal or bowel incontinence can also occur in children with autism. This type of incontinence can be linked to gastrointestinal issues common in autism, such as constipation, diarrhea, or a lack of awareness of the need to have a bowel movement. Your doctor may be able to help identify triggers for gastrointestinal issues to help improve digestion and overall gut health.
How to Help Children with ASD Manage Incontinence
As parents, it can be difficult to see your child struggle to learn to use the bathroom or experience incontinence while also adjusting to the characteristics of autism. Luckily, you can help your child manage incontinence in several ways. Some of the best tips to help ensure they see success include the following.
Talk with Your Doctor About Continence Care
Many children with autism may experience one or more types of UI at some point during their lives, and there are healthcare professionals available to help. At the first sign of any symptoms related to incontinence, schedule a trip to the pediatrician or a specialist. This will allow your doctor to determine whether the autism diagnosis or another underlying condition causes the incontinence. If underlying conditions are the root of the issue, your healthcare provider will help you start a treatment plan to address bothersome symptoms.
Be Positive and Supportive, No Matter What
As a caregiver, it's important to make sure that you remain positive, understanding, and supportive no matter what. Although it can be frustrating to navigate incontinence while trying to raise a child with autism, it's not their fault. You need to be patient and persistent to help give your child the best chance of overcoming their challenges.
Use Incontinence Products
Children with autism spectrum disorder tend to have a difficult time embracing change, which is one of the reasons potty training can be so challenging. This can be apparent when trying to transition from diapers to regular underwear. The key is to go slow and make gradual changes. Incontinence products like pull-ups or training pants can help guide your child into the transition without causing too much disruption to their routine. Over time, if you notice a schedule, you can anticipate accidents and help your children recognize the urge and find a toilet seat.
Create a Routine for Toilet Training
With that being said, routines are essential. Creating a bathroom routine can help your children avoid bladder leaks and have more regular bowel movements. Depending on your schedule, try scheduling bathroom breaks every two to three hours to start. You can see how this interval works and make adjustments as needed. If it's difficult to pull your child away from what they're doing, try to use soothing words to tell them that it will be there when they return. This can be challenging, but it's important to reinforce using the bathroom.
Pack a Bag with Incontinence Supplies
Always carry enough incontinence supplies with you to help avoid accidents on the go. Some key things to include in your bag are an extra set of clothes, pull-ups, and any other product that helps your child stay comfortable.
Keep Your Child Hydrated
Although it sounds counterintuitive, hydration is also a great tool for managing UI. Dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, which can irritate the bladder and worsen incontinence. Encourage your child to drink water regularly throughout the day. However, monitor their fluid intake, particularly before bed or during activities where bathroom access may be limited.
Try To Identify Incontinence Triggers
Certain foods, drinks, or even stressful situations may exacerbate incontinence symptoms. Keep a journal to track your child’s diet, activities, and bathroom habits to see if any patterns emerge. Once you identify triggers, you can work to minimize or eliminate them, helping your child gain better control over their bladder.
Talk to Teachers or Other Caretakers
Collaboration with teachers, caregivers, and others involved in your child’s daily life is vital for managing UI. Ensure they know about your child’s needs and any strategies you use to manage symptoms, such as scheduled bathroom breaks or using incontinence products.
Address Any Instances of Bullying
Incontinence can sometimes make children vulnerable to bullying, particularly in social or school settings. Encourage your child to share their feelings and experiences with you and work closely with school officials to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
Autism and Incontinence in Adults
Most people with autism grow out of incontinence as they get older. However, some adult incontinence in autistic individuals can still occur. Typically, the most common types of UI in adults with autism are functional incontinence and urge incontinence. Nocturnal enuresis may also continue into adulthood, depending on the individual. Working with your child's urologist from an early age into adulthood is important to help them prepare for the future.
Byram Healthcare is here to support children and adults with autism and incontinence. We offer several high-quality incontinence products to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about how we strive to empower our customers with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their health effectively.
