I reviewed with interest this large prospective Russian research study of 455 children (9-14 years old) who used a Bedwetting Alarm. They collected data on the optimal duration of alarm therapy use to stop the bedwetting (defined as no wets for 2 weeks or more) and reduce the risk of re-occurrence.

In the treatment group that used the Bedwetting Alarm for 16 weeks, (Group B) 80.7% became dry. In the group that used it 20 weeks (Group C), 85.5% got dry. In the group who used it 12 weeks (Group A), only 67.4% got dry. The data from this study found that children who used the alarm for 16-20 weeks did better than those who used it 12 weeks.

3 months after finishing treatment:
Group B -71.2% still dry
Group C – 77.1% still dry
Group A – 45.9% still dry

This study reaffirms that bedwetting alarms are still very effective in getting children to dryness. 85 out of 100 of these older children were able to achieve dryness when using the alarm long enough.

When children begin using a bedwetting alarm, they often wonder how long they will need to use it. According to this research, a realistic answer is 16-20 weeks. When initially choosing an alarm, make sure it is durable enough and comfortable enough to be used for this length of time. Remember that it gets easier the longer the alarm is used. Initially, the alarm may sound nightly. Over time, dry nights with no alarm sounding begin to happen. Then strings of dry nights until the two consecutive weeks are achieved.

Using the alarm this length of time also helps prevent relapse once it is stopped. Maybe creating a new permanent habit of independent awakening just takes time.