Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Anxiety can show up as pregnancy or postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder or postpartum-OCD. It can cause unwanted and terrifying intrusive or scary thoughts. Though these thoughts may involve grim imagery, it's important to note a mom experiencing OCD is horrified by these thoughts and would never act on them. You are not a bad mom.
Thoughts May Include...
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"Do you think XYZ will hurt the baby?" "I think it will make the baby really sick."
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May ask for reassurance, but not feel satisfied with answers.
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"I can't go down the stairs. The baby is going to fall out of my arms."
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"I can't give the baby a bath. I'll drown them."
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Other dark, unwanted thoughts – possibly about harm coming to her baby. These are thoughts mama may be hesitant to share. Let her know it's okay, that you believe she wouldn't act on them.
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Fear of being alone with baby.
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Because of the above, mama may avoid potentially harmful things such as the stove, stairs, knives or bathtub.
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Excessively Googling or researching to ease anxiety. ("I was researching XYZ and read that...")
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"Checking" baby's breathing, locked doors or other things to a level that is disruptive.
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Suggestions that eating or sleeping are disrupted.
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Fear that sharing the truth and experiences with loved ones or a doctor will result in baby being taken.
