There are two main types of alarms. One is a body alarm with a small sensor that can be worn inside your child’s pyjamas – many parents prefer these as children can continue to wear their DryNites throughout the training process. The second type of alarm is a bell and pad alarm that is placed like a mat over the bottom sheet. This is connected to an alarm box placed at the end of the bed. Some alarms have different settings that allow you to vary the sound – sometimes a louder alarm will raise a particularly deep sleeper. Others include a vibration option while others can even be programmed so that children wake up to the sound of a voice recording rather than an alarm (Malem Recordable Alarm). Before purchasing an alarm it is important that you speak with a continence specialist who will be able to advise you which one is best for your son. The success of the alarm is highly dependent on how motivated children are to become dry, correct instruction, as well as the level of support you receive so do not try to go it alone. You will find that many continence services also have bedwetting conditioning alarms for hire. For a referral to your local continence service, call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66.

Regards,
Dr Cathrine

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