Going through pregnancy and becoming a mother is a life-changing experience, filled with joys and challenges. While this period is often portrayed as one of the happiest times in a woman’s life, it’s important to recognise that it can also bring about significant emotional and psychological changes. You might be struggling with your mental health during this phase, and that’s completely okay. Let’s talk about perinatal mental health, particularly perinatal Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and how you can get the support you need.
Understanding Perinatal Mental Health
Perinatal mental health refers to your emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy and the first year after childbirth. This time is unique because it’s marked by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Unlike other mental health issues, perinatal mental health conditions are closely linked to the physiological and hormonal changes that accompany pregnancy and childbirth (Stewart & Vigod, 2016). Recognising and addressing these conditions is crucial for your well-being and that of your baby.
Physical and Hormonal Changes Leading to Perinatal Mental Health Issues
During pregnancy and after childbirth, your body undergoes substantial physical and hormonal changes. The increased levels of oestrogen and progesterone can affect your mood and emotional state (Miller, 2020). Additionally, the physical changes, such as weight gain, changes in body shape, and fatigue, can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression. It’s important to understand that these changes are natural and can significantly impact your mental health.
Statistics on Perinatal Mental Health
Perinatal mental health disorders affect many women globally, with approximately 10-15% of pregnant and postpartum women experiencing some form of mental health issue (World Health Organization, 2020). In the UK, about 1 in 5 women go through perinatal mental health challenges (Bauer et al., 2014). Specifically, perinatal OCD affects a significant number of women, characterised by intrusive, unwanted thoughts and compulsive behaviours related to your baby’s safety and well-being.
Challenges You Might Face During the Perinatal Phase
The perinatal phase presents several mental health challenges, including:
Perfectionism and Feelings of Inadequacy:
It’s natural to strive to be the best mother you can be, but this can sometimes lead to perfectionism and a pervasive sense of not being good enough (Fairbrother & Woody, 2008).
Depression:
Postpartum depression is a common condition that can severely impact your ability to care for your child and yourself (Gavin et al., 2005). Recognising the signs early and seeking help is crucial.
Perinatal OCD:
If you experience intrusive thoughts of harm coming to your baby, leading to compulsive behaviours, you might be dealing with perinatal OCD (Abramowitz et al., 2010). These thoughts can cause intense guilt and shame, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone and there is help available.
How CBT Can Help You with Perinatal OCD
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for perinatal OCD. It can help you identify and challenge the negative thought patterns and behaviours contributing to your symptoms. Here’s how CBT can support you:
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP):
This technique involves gradually exposing you to your feared thoughts or situations while preventing the compulsive response. This helps reduce your anxiety and compulsive behaviours over time (Abramowitz et al., 2010).
Cognitive Restructuring:
CBT helps you identify and alter distorted beliefs about your thoughts and behaviours, promoting a more balanced perspective (Stein et al., 2011).
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:
These techniques can help you manage anxiety and improve your emotional regulation, making it easier to cope with the demands of motherhood (Braehler et al., 2013).
Words of Encouragement
Perinatal mental health, particularly OCD, can present unique challenges. It is crucial to be mindful of your needs and the difficulties you may face during this period. Reaching out to a professional who can support you in getting the right help and therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), can make a significant difference. This support can help improve your well-being and strengthen your bond with your baby. It is fine to seek assistance, so please allow yourself to.
References
Abramowitz, J. S., Schwartz, S. A., Moore, K. M., & Luenzmann, K. R. (2010). Obsessive-compulsive symptoms in pregnancy and the puerperium: A review of the literature. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 17(4), 461-478.
Bauer, A., Parsonage, M., Knapp, M., Iemmi, V., & Adelaja, B. (2014). The costs of perinatal mental health problems. Centre for Mental Health and London School of Economics.
Braehler, C., Gumley, A., Harper, J., Wallace, S., Norrie, J., & Gilbert, P. (2013). Exploring change processes in compassion focused therapy in psychosis: Results of a feasibility randomized controlled trial. British Journal of Clinical Psychology, 52(2), 199-214.
Fairbrother, N., & Woody, S. R. (2008). Perinatal obsessive-compulsive disorder: A review. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 22(3), 461-478.
Gavin, N. I., Gaynes, B. N., Lohr, K. N., Meltzer-Brody, S., Gartlehner, G., & Swinson, T. (2005). Perinatal depression: a systematic review of prevalence and incidence. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 106(5 Part 1), 1071-1083.
Miller, E. S. (2020). Postpartum depression. New England Journal of Medicine, 383(22), 2172-2180.
Stein, D. J., Craske, M. G., Friedman, M. J., & Phillips, K. A. (2011). Anxiety disorders. Wiley.
Stewart, D. E., & Vigod, S. N. (2016). Postpartum depression. New England Journal of Medicine, 375(21), 2177-2186.
World Health Organization. (2020). Maternal mental health. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/mental_health/maternal-child/maternal_mental_health/en/