Perinatal OCD vs. Normal New Mom Worries: How to Tell the Difference

Becoming a new parent naturally comes with a flood of thoughts and worries. But how do you know when those thoughts cross the line into something more serious—like Perinatal OCD? You're not alone in wondering.

1. Normal New Mom Worries: What They Look Like

• Concerns about baby's safety, sleep, feeding, and development.

• Double-checking the diaper bag or Googling symptoms.

• Feeling overwhelmed, but thoughts are flexible and manageable.

• Worries often decrease with reassurance.

🔍 These worries are driven by love and a desire to do things "right." They come and go and don’t feel terrifying or out of control.

2. What Is Perinatal OCD?

• A subtype of OCD that occurs during pregnancy or postpartum.

• Characterized by obsessions (disturbing, unwanted intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (mental or physical actions to neutralize the fear).

• Common themes: harming the baby, contamination, religious/moral fears, need for symmetry.

4. Common Myths

• Myth: “If I think it, I must want it.”
  Truth: Intrusive thoughts are not desires. They are symptoms.

• Myth: “Only bad moms have these thoughts.”
  Truth: These thoughts are common in Perinatal-OCD—and they happen to loving, caring parents.

5. What to Do If You Relate

• You are not dangerous. You are not alone. You are not your thoughts.

• Treatment works: ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), CBT/I-CBT, and medication when appropriate.

• Look for a therapist trained in perinatal mental health and OCD.

🌱 Healing is possible—and you don’t have to go through this in silence.

If this post resonates with you, know that there’s compassionate, effective help available. Whether you’re navigating postpartum anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or just not feeling like yourself, you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out today for support that meets you right where you are. Schedule a consult here.