The frequency of urination or peeing in children is certainly different from adults. Usually, children or babies will urinate more frequently, at least 6 times a day. However, there are certain conditions that cause a child not to urinate all day.
Experts say that a child who does not urinate during the day for 6–8 hours should be monitored. Below, we will discuss the causes of a child not urinating that parents should be aware of.
Causes of Infrequent Urination in Babies
A baby who rarely urinates can indicate various health issues that need attention. Some common causes include:
1. Dehydration
Dehydration can occur to anyone, including adults, children, and even infants. Dehydration is one of the common reasons why infants urinate infrequently throughout the day, especially those under 6 months old. In fact, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), newborns should urinate at least 6 times a day. If it's less than that, it could be a sign that the baby is lacking fluids.
Dehydration can also increase the risk of other health issues, such as fever, diarrhea, or excessive vomiting. A baby who rarely urinates is a sign that the little one is experiencing dehydration, which can be identified by a reduced frequency of diaper changes. Additionally, it can be observed from other symptoms such as being easily drowsy, sleeping longer than usual, crying without tears, sunken eyes, reluctance to engage in activities, and dry skin, mouth, and tongue.
To help monitor your little one's urination frequency, it is important for parents to choose diapers that are comfortable and absorbent. MAKUKU Slim is one of the recommended premium diapers that are thin and soft for babies and toddlers. MAKUKU Slim has a variety of features that provide extra comfort, such as being diaper-free, so that babies remain comfortable even when the diaper is full.
2. Urinary tract infection (UTI)
Normally, urine produced by the kidneys will first pass through the urinary tract until it is finally expelled through the urethra. However, if there are health issues such as blockages or infections, it can disrupt the frequency of urination and affect the volume or amount of the baby's urine.
Urinary tract infections can also make babies feel uncomfortable when urinating and cause them to hold in their pee. If the reason a baby rarely urinates is due to a UTI, then this complaint may be accompanied by other symptoms. These include fever, thick dark-colored urine, foul-smelling urine, frequent urination with only small amounts being passed, and fussiness. According to several pediatricians, UTIs are a fairly common bacterial infection in babies, especially those still using diapers.
3. Kidney Disease
As mentioned earlier, the kidneys play an important role in filtering and removing waste products through urine. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, urine production decreases and babies will urinate less frequently. According to the journal Pediatric Nephrology, this condition is known as oliguria, which is a significant decrease in urine production and is one of the symptoms of acute kidney failure.
The causes of kidney disease in infants are due to several factors, including infection, injury, and genetic factors. If moms notice that the little one rarely urinates throughout the day despite drinking enough, pay close attention to the child's body. Check if this is accompanied by swelling and pale skin. If this occurs, do not hesitate to consult a doctor.
4. Fever or Hot Weather
Other causes of infrequent urination in babies include fever or hot weather. When body temperature rises, a baby's body will try to lower the temperature by releasing fluids through sweat. According to Mayo Clinic, in this condition, the body will naturally retain fluids to prevent excessive loss as urine.
As a result, the baby will urinate less than usual. This is a natural response of the body to maintain fluid balance, but it still needs attention because it can lead to dehydration if not balanced with sufficient fluid intake.
5. Kompresi Saraf
Children who urinate infrequently may also have a disorder of the nervous system that controls bladder function. Compression or nerve abnormalities can cause babies to not feel the urge to urinate. According to data from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, this disorder is known as neurogenic bladder and can occur in infants, although it is rare.
Several studies mention that children can start to fully control their bladder at 18 months, but some only develop this skill until they are 4 years old or older.
Here is a list of causes why a child may not urinate all day. If moms and dads notice any of the symptoms above, immediately consult a doctor to ensure the little one receives the appropriate care and treatment.
