You’re Not a Bad Mom—You’re Struggling with Perinatal OCD

You love your baby more than anything. So why are these terrifying, unwanted thoughts intruding into your mind? Thoughts like, What if I drop him? or What if I lose control? can make you question everything. 

Take a deep breath. These thoughts do not define you. Perinatal OCD is a common but distressing condition that affects many new moms, and with the right support, you can get through this.

Perinatal OCD isn’t just regular new-mom worry. It’s a relentless cycle of fear, doubt, and guilt that can feel impossible to escape. You might find yourself bombarded with disturbing, unwanted thoughts about something bad happening to your baby. These thoughts aren’t reflections of what you want to do—they’re the opposite, which is why they feel so distressing

Maybe you start avoiding situations that trigger these thoughts, like holding your baby near the stairs or giving them a bath. You might find yourself constantly seeking reassurance—Googling, asking loved ones if you’re a good mom, or mentally reviewing your every action to “make sure” you’d never hurt your baby. For a moment, these actions may bring relief, but soon enough, the fear creeps back in, stronger than before.

The worst part? The shame. Perinatal OCD thrives on making you believe you’re the only mom who’s ever felt this way. But the truth is, these thoughts are common, and they do not mean anything about who you are as a mother. You are not broken, and many others have walked this path before you.

We know how exhausting it is to feel trapped in your own mind—constantly analyzing every thought, questioning your own intentions, and fearing what they might mean. That’s why our approach is rooted in compassion and evidence-based care.

One of the most effective treatments for Perinatal OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). It might sound scary at first, but ERP is designed to help you regain control over your thoughts rather than letting them control you. Instead of avoiding the situations or thoughts that trigger anxiety, we gently guide you through facing them in a safe, supportive way. Over time, your brain learns that these thoughts are just noise—not something dangerous or meaningful.

We also integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) into our work. Instead of battling against every intrusive thought, ACT teaches you how to step back, observe them for what they are—just thoughts—and refocus on what truly matters: being present with your baby and living according to your values. You don’t have to get rid of these thoughts to be a good mom; you just have to stop letting them define you.

And because we know how much guilt and shame can weigh on you, we also use Compassion-Focused Therapy. So many moms tell us they feel like they should “just get over it” or that they’re failing because they can’t stop these thoughts. We help you shift that inner dialogue, treating yourself with the same kindness you’d give a close friend who was struggling. You are not failing—you are doing your best, and that is enough.

Many moms feel like they should “just get over it” or that they’re failing. Compassion-Focused Therapy helps shift that inner dialogue, treating yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a friend.

Healing from Perinatal OCD isn’t about never having another intrusive thought. It’s about learning to live fully, even when those thoughts arise, without fear or shame holding you back. And we’re here to walk that path with you.

Perinatal OCD can make motherhood feel overwhelming, but help is within reach. With the right tools and support, you can regain your confidence and enjoy this chapter of your life.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward healing
Contact Us Today