Teenage Zone

Neurodiversity Hub Wirral

Toileting Problems in Teenagers

Sometimes young people have worries about their bladder or bowels, like needing the toilet a lot or having accidents. This can feel upsetting, but it’s actually really common and nothing to be embarrassed about. This section explains what these problems might look like and gives simple ideas to help you feel better and more confident. You’re not alone, and there are people who can support you.

human intestines

  • Teenagers can experience different bladder and bowel difficulties. These may include:

    Frequency

    Needing to pee more than seven times a day.

    Urgency

    Feeling a sudden need to get to the toilet quickly, some or all of the time.

    Wetting

    Pee leaking out on its own, often with little or no warning.

    Bedwetting

    Wetting the bed during sleep.
    Some teenagers may have other bladder or bowel problems during the day, but some may only wet the bed at night.

    Constipation

    Having a poo fewer than three times a week, or having poos that are:

    • hard to pass

    • painful

    • very large or very small

    • very sticky

    • very hard or very loose

    • needing to strain to poo

    Soiling

    Poo leaking into underwear. This may happen when:

    • the body gives no warning that poo is coming

    • the teenager does not feel the poo in their underwear

  • Here are some simple steps that can help with bladder and bowel issues:

    Drink plenty of water‑based drinks

    Aim for:

    • 1½ to 2 litres a day for teenage girls

    • 2 to 2½ litres a day for teenage boys

    • More on hot days or if doing a lot of exercise

    Drinking enough helps to:

    • keep pee pale and less irritating to the bladder

    • prevent constipation

    • lower the risk of urinary tract infections (UTI)

    Avoid drinks with caffeine

    These include tea, coffee, hot chocolate and energy drinks.
    Caffeine:

    • makes the kidneys produce more wee

    • irritates the bladder

    • can make wetting worse

    Avoid drinking in the hour before bed

    Especially important if you experience bedwetting.

    Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables

    Aim for five to seven portions a day.
    This helps prevent constipation.

    Go to the toilet when you feel the need

    Do not wait or hold it in.

    Talk to someone you trust

    Support is available (see below).

  • Yes, school can help.

    If you have bladder or bowel problems, you can ask for a medical pass that allows you to leave lessons to use the toilet when you need to. Most schools will provide one once they understand the issue.

    You can:

    • talk to your pastoral leader (head of year or head of house)

    • ask your parent or carer to speak to school

    • ask the school nurse to help you get a pass

    If you are worried about:

    • the condition of school toilets

    • limited access to drinks

    You can raise this with the school council. Friends may be able to support you too.

  • Some teenagers have bladder or bowel problems related to a medical condition they were born with, or due to illness or injury. They may need:

    • catheters

    • medicines

    • special bowel management programmes

    If this applies to you, follow the guidance given by your healthcare team.
    If you feel worried or things are getting harder, speak to a health professional as soon as you can.

    Life as a teenager can be challenging. Wanting to feel the same as everyone else is normal.

    If you had leaks when you were younger and adults reacted negatively, you may feel nervous about asking for help now.
    But today, we understand these issues better. Bladder and bowel problems are not your fault, and you should feel confident seeking support.

    Trying to hide these problems can make you feel different or alone. If others find out, you may worry about teasing or bullying. These difficulties can affect:

    • confidence

    • friendships

    • taking part in school trips or sleepovers

    Continence problems can sometimes affect mental health and lead to low mood.

  • Most bladder and bowel problems can be treated.
    Some improve quickly; others take longer and need regular routines.

    If you or someone you know is affected, please ask for help.

    School Nurse

    Most secondary schools offer drop‑in clinics with the school nurse.
    Reception can tell you when the nurse is in school.
    You do not need to say why you want to see them.

    GP (General Practitioner)

    You can tell your parent or carer and ask them to book an appointment.
    If you are over 16, you can:

    • register with a GP yourself

    • make your own appointment

    More Information

    Bladder and Bowel UK:
    https://www.bbuk.org.uk/toileting-troubles-in-teenagers-and-young-people/

    ERIC also offers helpful information for teenagers on topics such as:

    • managing medical appointments

    • managing feelings and relationships

    • trips away from home

    • managing at school and college

    • moving to university (ERIC Young Champions)

    Visit ERIC