![]() This experience may be a sign of OCD if the thoughts come with a “false alarm system” or a surge of anxiety. Jonathan Abramovitz and his colleagues found that more than two thirds of new fathers surveyed also experienced intrusive thoughts before and shortly after the birth of their child! What is the difference between typically occurring intrusive thoughts parents experience and those occurring in perinatal OCD?įor most, these thoughts are deemed meaningless and simply pass. Some studies suggest that as many as 90% of new mothers experience unwanted thoughts related to their child during pregnancy or shortly after birth! Do new and expecting fathers experience intrusive thoughts as well?Ībsolutely! While there is more focus on postpartum mental health challenges for mothers, fathers also experience similar thoughts. Intrusive thoughts are quite common for new and expecting parents. How common are intrusive thoughts during the perinatal period? However, much less attention and research has been directed towards the experience of perinatal OCD. There has been progress towards bringing more awareness and understanding to the diagnosis and treatment of postpartum depression. ![]() Those who already experience OCD, or are at risk for developing this disorder, may be more likely to experience intrusive thoughts related to their child and these thoughts can be accompanied by great anxiety and distress. Therefore, it is no surprise that such a significant life event can be associated with greater vulnerability to mental health challenges such as OCD. Times of pregnancy and postpartum can also be times of hormonal fluctuations and imbalances (e.g., progesterone, serotonin and oxytocin). Many parents also experience challenges in balancing their work, family and personal life, and integrating their new role as a parent. These can include getting less sleep, having less time for self-care and pleasurable activities, changes in sex life, and financial demands. It can also be a difficult transition that comes with great stressors. The perinatal period, or the time before and after birth, is a time that can be exciting and joyful. These are actual examples of distressing and anxiety-provoking intrusive thoughts that new or expecting parents diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have shared during psychotherapy sessions. “What if my baby ingests a toxic chemical from their toys and dies?” “What if I hurt my baby last night but forgot about it?” ![]() “What if I felt aroused when changing my baby’s diaper/breastfeeding?” “What if I lose control and throw my baby out the window?” ![]()
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