Urinary Frequency  (Urinary Urgency)

What are urinary frequency and urinary urgency?

Urinary frequency refers to the need or urge to urinate more often than normal. Children with urinary frequency may need to use the bathroom more than around 8 times per day. Urinary urgency is the strong and sudden need to go to the bathroom right away. Children with urinary urgency often cannot hold their urine.

What are the signs and symptoms of urinary frequency?

Signs and symptoms of urinary frequency and urgency may include:

• Strong or urgent desire to use the bathroom
• Going to the bathroom more often than normal
• Leaking urine or damp underwear
• Large urine accidents
• Being unable to make it the bathroom “in time”

What causes urinary frequency and urgency?

There are many possible causes for urinary frequency and urgency. Some possible causes can include:

• Distraction
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Overactive bladder
• Disorders causing an overproduction of urine
• Constipation
• Anxiety/stress

How is urinary frequency and urgency treated?

Your child’s treatment for urinary frequency and urgency will depend on the cause of the problem. The Division of Urology at Arkansas Children’s is experienced in diagnosing and treating urinary frequency and urgency and will work with you to determine a diagnosis and treatment plan for your child.