Most people associate OCD with checking locks or washing hands. But there's a version of OCD that gets far less attention — one that can emerge or worsen during pregnancy and in the months after having a baby.
A 2022 research review looked specifically at OCD during the perinatal period (that's the time around pregnancy and early parenthood). The findings are important: OCD can both appear for the first time and significantly intensify during this window. For some new parents, intrusive thoughts about harming their baby — distressing, unwanted, and completely out of character — become overwhelming. This is a recognised symptom of OCD, not a sign of being a bad parent.
The research explored why this happens. Hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and the enormous psychological adjustment of becoming a parent all play a role. But the key message is this: perinatal OCD responds well to treatment. Psychological therapy — particularly a type of CBT called ERP — is effective, and when medication is needed, safe options exist even during breastfeeding.
If you're a new or expectant parent and your thoughts are scaring you, please reach out. These experiences are more common than you'd think, they're not your fault, and help is available.