Perinatal OCD Treatment

According to the National Institutes of Health, the gold standard for treatment of perinatal OCD is a form of psychotherapy called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP). Medication (namely selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs) can also be added to to better support a patient with ERP response, or when ERP treatment is not available. 

Below is an overview of ERP and other forms of evidence based therapies and treatment. 

Referral to a Specialist

Referral to therapists with specialized intensive training in ERP is crucial to prevent potential harm (worsened symptoms) caused by interventions that are not evidence-based.

The International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) Resource Directory lists providers who have such training as well as those who specialize in perinatal OCD: iocdf.org/find-help

 

Counselor talking to a family.Support Groups

Support groups led by clinicians and/or trained peers who are informed about the nuances of perinatal OCD and intrusive thoughts can be a helpful means to connect with others going through similar experiences. 

Virtual Perinatal Support Group for Moms with OCD have been formed by Postpartum Support International and the International OCD Foundation: https://www.postpartum.net/get-help/