Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterised by recurrent intrusive thoughts, which can lead to repetitive behaviour.

OCD has 3 main elements:

• Obsessions – These are unwanted, intrusive and often distressing thoughts, images or urges that repeatedly enter your mind without warning and have limited relief

• Emotions – The obsessions can leave a feeling of intense anxiety and/or distress, guilt, disgust or eventually depression

• Compulsions – These are repetitive behaviours or mental acts that a person with OCD feels driven to perform as a result of the anxiety and distress caused by the obsession. If the compulsion is not acted out, it can lead to a severe emotional response

Most obsessions in the perinatal period involve an intense fear of germs/dirt, but may involve things you did or didn’t do to keep your baby safe. They can also centre around an image or thought that you may harm your child or that someone else may harm you or your family.

Compulsions often involve the care of the new baby and/or other children. For example, you may feel the need to check on the baby so regularly checking that you are unable to sleep at night for fear of them stopping breathing. Or you may begin ritualistically and excessively washing, cleaning, or sterilising for fear of the baby/children becoming unwell. You may experience severe guilt at doing or not doing something for your baby/children, and you may seek approval from others regularly to ensure you are a good enough parent. You may also find yourself avoiding situations you fear are too dangerous or could potentially allow your fears and obsessions to become a reality.

Most people suffering from OCD find that their compulsive behaviour temporarily relieves the anxiety, but the obsession and anxiety soon return, causing the cycle to begin again.

Treatment

Disruption to everyday life can be quite marked if you do not receive appropriate help and support, so it is important if you think you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms to seek professional help as soon as possible. Treatment and support means that most people make a full recovery.

More information about OCD can be found here: Perinatal OCD | Royal College of Psychiatrists (rcpsych.ac.uk)