Are you wondering if you may have perinatal OCD? Here are some common symptoms/signs:
Signs and symptoms of perinatal OCD
Common perinatal obsessions
- Fear of harming or hurting the baby
- Distress and worry about being a “bad” parent
- Fear of contamination
- Worry about how much or what kind of milk the baby is consuming
Common perinatal compulsions
- Repetitively checking your baby for signs of illness or health issues such as their breathing
- Constantly seeking reassurance from your loved ones that you’re a good parent
- Avoiding activities or situations that might put your baby at risk for getting sick or hurt, such as allowing others to hold your baby
- Frequent cleaning or sanitizing to make sure that your baby doesn’t get sick.
- Excessive googling about baby health and safety.
- Performing mental rituals such as praying, repeating phrases to prevent harm from occurring.
Perinatal OCD can feel overwhelming and isolating, but it is treatable. I provide evidence-based therapy called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for women experiencing intrusive thoughts, mental compulsions, and heightened anxiety during pregnancy or postpartum.
Treatment focuses on:
- Understanding and managing intrusive thoughts
- Reducing anxiety and compulsive behaviors
- Regaining confidence and trust in yourself as a mother
I offer therapy in-person in Tucson, AZ, and via telehealth for PSYPACT-approved states, using structured approaches grounded in CBT and mindfulness.
Dr. Valerie Ogborn | Clinical Psychologist| Perinatal Mental Health-Certified 