SPHINCTER CONTROL
Sphincter control is a process of learning to wee and poo and is associated with a process of nervous maturation. Therefore, although the ages are approximate, it is necessary to take into account the child's maturation process.
At around 18 months, children can already anticipate the sensation of weeing and identify that they feel wet, but it is from the age of 2 years that they begin to have a perception of the desire to wee and poo, first during the day and later at night.
Most children achieve daytime control by the age of 2-3 years and night-time control by the age of 5 years.
Toilet training is a time in our children's development that requires a calm and relaxed environment.
There is no exact age to remove the nappy, we must take into account the biological and psychological maturity of the child, but if we do it correctly, what we do is stimulate brain functions, so the child will exercise more nervous system.
Disorders associated with a lack of sphincter control are enuresis (wee-wee control) and encopresis (poo control). Although they usually disappear spontaneously, this is an issue that should not be ignored. A thorough medical and psychological assessment is necessary to determine the causes and, above all, not to ridicule or punish the child.
ENURESIS
Bedwetting is the non-voluntary passing of urine during the day and/or at night, beyond the age of 4 or 5 years, when the child is ready.
Main factors:
- Physical problem. First element to rule out.
- Introduction of the habit before the recommended stage.
- Psychological factors. Elements that may interfere emotionally with the child such as the birth of a sibling, separation process from parents.....
- Hereditary factors.
- Very deep sleep cycle.
- It may be associated with other disorders or emotional distress.
ENCOPRESS
Encopresis is when a child poops repeatedly or involuntarily, in places that are not appropriate, at an age when control is expected, i.e. beyond the age of 4 or 5 years.
Main factors:
- A bad learning habit. Demanding control too early or too late.
- Chronic constipation
- It may be associated with other disorders or emotional distress.
