Postpartum OCD: Signs, Symptoms, & Treatment
By : Katherine Pica LCSW
This was supposed to be one of the best moments of your life.
You have dreamt of this day since you were a child. Your mother constantly reminds you of when you followed her around, mimicking her every movement with your dolls. You changed their outfits, brushed their hair, cradled them, and put them to bed.
You’re officially a parent. You’re fully aware of how lucky you are. So why don’t you feel the way you thought you would? Instead, you feel anxious, on edge, and unprepared. Maybe you are struggling with intrusive thoughts and wondering why would you have thoughts like this. Doesn’t parenthood usually come naturally? If I really was a good parent I would not have thoughts like this.
Let’s learn more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for postpartum OCD.
What is Postpartum OCD?
You’ve probably heard of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD before. Postpartum OCD is a subtype of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder that isn’t as commonly known or talked about.
Similar to other forms of OCD, postpartum OCD involves intrusive or unwanted thoughts. In order to cope, an individual will feel like they have to perform a compulsion. SOme mother have intrusive thoughts about harm coming to their child. Postpartum OCD obsessions and compulsions are usually centered around their newborn baby’s health, safety, and well-being.
Common Obsessions, Signs, and Symptoms
Fear and germs are the most common worries or obsessions for any new parent, even ones not suffering from postpartum OCD. When these fears start to get in the way of your normal day-to-day functioning, this is a huge indicator that postpartum OCD may be the cause.
Here are the most common obsessions, signs, and symptoms associated with postpartum OCD:
Avoiding doing things with your baby like bathing, carrying, or changing them
Fear of hurting your child
Having a hard time caring for your child
Overwhelmed by obsessions and compulsions
Postpartum depression
Sleeping problems
Wanting someone nearby for fear of hurting your child
Common Compulsions
Compulsions are the actions that people with OCD feel like they must perform to cope with their obsessions. These are the most common compulsions that a new parent may perform if they’re experiencing postpartum OCD:
Avoiding being alone with their baby
Checking if the baby is breathing throughout the night
Feeling like you have to keep your thoughts and feelings to yourself
Excessive visual checks on their baby
Having other people change the baby’s diaper
Repeating mantras in their head about their child
Researching what their thoughts and feelings mean
Seeking reassurance about their baby or if they’re a good parent from their loved ones
Worry that you’ll be hospitalized for your thoughts and feelings
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OCD Treatment Options
Worrying about your child is completely normal, especially as a new parent. Intrisve thoughts as a new parent are normal as well. Its how we resond to those thoughts that makes the difference. If your thoughts and feelings are starting to get in the way of your day-to-day life, it may be time to reach out for additional support.
A therapist can work with you to help you get to the root cause of why you may be feeling and thinking this way. They’ll also be able to help you work through any obsessions or compulsions so you can find some other ways to process how you may be feeling.
These obsessions and compulsions do not make you a bad parent. One of the best things you can do for yourself and your child is to reach out for the help you deserve!
Postpartum OCD treatment San Diego
Our team has extensive experience in treating Postpartum struggles and OCD. We are dedicated to providing compassionate evidenced based care to help you manage your symptoms and enjoy your journey into parenthood. Contact us today to set up a free 15 minute consultation.
About the Author: Katherine Pica OCD Therapist - San Diego, CA
Katherine Pica is the owner and founder of Resilience counseling. She supervises all the therapists at Resilience Counseling. She has been practicing since 2007 for over 17 years! Certified in postpartum care as a PMHC. SKilled in ERP for OCD and EMDR for Trauma. Katherine brings years of experience working with OCD to you. In person therapy available in San Diego, CA or all over California for virtual therapy.
OCD therapy and other areas of treatment in the
San Diego based office
Disclaimer : The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional and or medical advice, diagnosis, and or treatment. It is important to always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a mental health and/or medical condition. Never disregard any professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Resilience Counseling website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 or local emergency number immediately.
