If you have postpartum OCD, you'll need larger doses of medications than people with other types of anxiety disorders. This tricyclic antidepressant medication acts on brain chemicals differently from SSRIs. Sometimes the doctor may recommend other drugs, such as benzodiazepines and antipsychotic medication, to enhance the SSRI effects.Īnother common medication for treating postpartum OCD is clomipramine. Therefore, more serotonin becomes available to carry more signals to the nearby nerve cells. These medications hinder the reuptake of serotonin. Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine and fluvoxamine, effectively treat the condition. The doctor may recommend medication, especially for moderate-to-severe postpartum OCD. They can improve your ability to be a more present parent and allow you to enjoy bonding with your baby. Practicing these strategies is great for your mental health. Something as simple as doing things you enjoy, like your favorite hobby or taking a long bath, can also help. Self-care may include exercising, getting adequate sleep, linking with a support network, and eating well. Self-care strategies may not cure postpartum OCD, but they can make you feel better when combined with other treatments. Couples therapy can educate you and your partner about the condition so that you can cope more effectively with your symptoms. The condition may make you feel guilty or ashamed of your feelings. It teaches you how to face thoughts or situations that provoke anxiety.Įxposure and Response Prevention (ERP) helps you learn to handle the anxiety resulting from intrusive thoughts, gradually reducing compulsive behaviors.Ĭouples therapy can significantly help when you have postpartum OCD. This treatment focuses on changing the negative thoughts linked to obsessions. TherapyĬognitive behavior therapy⁷ (CBT) is an effective therapy for postpartum OCD. However, your healthcare provider may also recommend pharmacological treatment and hormone therapy. The first lines of treatment for postpartum OCD are usually therapy and self-care, especially if you're breastfeeding. They will be able to treat you and prevent your symptoms from worsening. If you're concerned you have postpartum OCD, speak to your loved ones and a healthcare provider. Sometimes, however, it may take months for you or your family to notice these symptoms. People usually begin seeing postpartum OCD symptoms in the first 2-3 weeks after delivery. You may frequently check on or wash your baby. You may feel compelled to carry out rituals to stop the obsessive thoughts or prevent your fears from becoming a reality. This may be because you don't want others to judge you, or you may fear a diagnosis of another condition warranting hospitalization.įearing that something may harm your baby. Not wanting to tell others about your fears. Sleeping difficulties due to obsessive and compulsive urges.Īvoid activities with your baby, like bathing them or changing their diapers. Below are common postpartum OCD symptoms:įearing you might harm your baby even when you don't have bad intentions.
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