Perinatal OCD: When Intrusive Thoughts Start Taking Over
In my previous blog, I talked about intrusive thoughts during pregnancy and early parenthood. Many mums experience these occasionally. But when the thoughts become persistent, distressing, or make it difficult for you to manage your life, it may be perinatal OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder).
Perinatal OCD can develop during pregnancy (antenatal OCD) or after birth (postpartum OCD).
What Perinatal OCD Can Look Like
Perinatal OCD usually involves two parts:
Obsessions — intrusive thoughts, images, or fears that keep coming back, and are often upsetting
Compulsions — things that you do over and over again to feel better about your obsessions
These often focus on your baby. Some common examples include:
Worrying your baby might stop breathing → checking on them repeatedly while they sleep
Fears about your baby’s health or wellbeing → frequently asking family, health professionals, or Google for reassurance
Upsetting thoughts about accidental harm → avoiding everyday activities like bathing, carrying, or feeding your baby because it feels safer
Concerns about germs or illness → cleaning, washing, or sterilising items repeatedly to ease distress
How Perinatal OCD Can Affect Daily Life
Perinatal OCD can take up a lot of mental space. You might notice:
Difficulty relaxing or enjoying your baby
Feeling constantly on edge or hyper-alert
Shame, guilt, or fear about your thoughts
Avoiding normal parenting activities
Exhaustion from managing distress
Many parents worry they’ll be judged if they talk about this. But perinatal mental health difficulties are common, and you don’t have to manage them alone.
Support Can Make a Difference
Perinatal OCD is very treatable. Evidence-based therapies, sometimes combined with medication, can help reduce the distress you are experiencing.
If intrusive thoughts, pregnancy OCD, or postpartum anxiety are affecting your wellbeing or making it harder to enjoy time with your baby, support can really help.
You can book an appointment with Mums in Mind Psychology online anywhere in Australia, or in person in Coburg. Early support often helps you feel more settled, confident, and connected in your parenting journey.
