Postpartum OCD & Intrusive Thoughts
Having scary or repetitive thoughts after your baby’s birth doesn’t make you a bad parent. It makes you human—and it means you deserve support.
When Thoughts Feel Out of Control
You love your baby. But what happens in your mind doesn’t always match the love in your heart. You may find yourself:
Thinking of worst-case scenarios over and over
Having vivid images of something bad happening to your baby
Feeling terrified of being left alone with your child
Avoiding certain activities because of “what if” fears
Repeating rituals or checking behaviors to feel safe
Questioning if you’re “going crazy”
These thoughts can be so disturbing that many parents feel ashamed to tell anyone about them. You may fear people will judge you, or worse, think your baby isn’t safe with you.
But here’s the truth: intrusive thoughts are a symptom, not a reflection of who you are. You are not your thoughts. And you don’t have to face them alone.
What Is Postpartum OCD?
Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder that affects both moms and dads. It is different from postpartum depression, though the two can overlap.
Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause distress.
Compulsions are behaviors or rituals you may do to try to make the thoughts stop or prevent something bad from happening.
It often shows up as fears of harm coming to your baby, thoughts that are the opposite of your deepest desires as a parent.
While postpartum OCD can feel terrifying, it is treatable. With the right support, you can quiet the intrusive thoughts and feel more like yourself again.
How Therapy Helps
At the Center for Postpartum Family Health (CPFH), our therapists specialize in perinatal mental health, including postpartum OCD. We know how scary and isolating intrusive thoughts can be, and how much relief comes from finally saying them out loud to someone who understands.
In therapy, we’ll help you:
Understand what intrusive thoughts are, and why they don’t mean you’ll act on them
Learn evidence-based strategies to reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors
Develop tools to manage anxiety without rituals or avoidance
Process the guilt, shame, or fear tied to your thoughts
Rebuild trust in yourself as a safe and loving parent
Strengthen support and communication with your partner
You don’t have to keep these thoughts bottled up. Healing begins when you share them in a safe space.
Our 3-Step Approach
Schedule a Free Consultation We’ll listen to what you’re experiencing and answer your questions about therapy.
Get Matched with the Right Therapist We’ll pair you with someone trained in perinatal OCD and anxiety treatment.
Begin Your Healing Journey In-person sessions in Houston, The Woodlands or Spring, or secure telehealth across Texas. Therapy that meets you where you are.
Why Parents Choose CPFH
Specialized Expertise — We focus on pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood struggles.
Evidence-Based Approaches — We use therapies proven to help with OCD and anxiety.
Compassion & Confidentiality — We understand the shame parents carry and create a safe, judgment-free space.
Flexible Options — Evening and telehealth appointments designed for busy parents.
What Happens Without Support
Without help, postpartum OCD can grow stronger over time. Intrusive thoughts may become more frequent, and compulsions more controlling. This can create barriers to bonding with your baby, strain your relationship, and fuel exhaustion.
You don’t have to live in fear of your own thoughts. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you can feel relief.
Imagine the “After”
Picture yourself…
Knowing how to respond when intrusive thoughts show up
Spending time with your baby without overwhelming fear
Breaking free from rituals or checking behaviors
Feeling calmer, clearer, and more confident as a parent
Enjoying parenthood without shame or constant worry
This isn’t just possible, it’s something we see parents achieve every day.
Frequently Asked Questions about Postpartum OCD & Intrusive Thoughts
Are intrusive thoughts normal after having a baby?
Yes. Many new parents experience unwanted, scary thoughts. The difference with postpartum OCD is how frequent, distressing, or consuming those thoughts become. Therapy can help you manage them and find relief.
Does having intrusive thoughts mean I’ll hurt my baby?
No. Parents with postpartum OCD are deeply distressed by these thoughts because they are the opposite of what they want. Having intrusive thoughts does not mean you will act on them.
How is postpartum OCD treated?
Therapy often involves cognitive-behavioral strategies, exposure/response prevention (ERP), and mindfulness. At CPFH, we tailor care to your specific symptoms and needs.
Can dads or partners experience postpartum OCD?
Yes. While often discussed in moms, intrusive thoughts and OCD symptoms can affect partners, too. We welcome both moms and dads into treatment.
What if I’m too ashamed to share my thoughts?
You are not alone. Our therapists are trained in perinatal mental health and will listen without judgment. Talking about the thoughts is the first step toward freedom.
You Don’t Have to Carry This Alone
Intrusive thoughts are a burden you were never meant to shoulder in silence. Therapy can give you the tools, the relief, and the reassurance you need to step into parenthood with more peace.
You deserve to feel safe in your own mind, and confident in your role as a parent