And Baby Makes…OCD

The group also researched which mothers were at greater risk for postpartum OC symptoms. On the checklist: higher levels of anxiety before pregnancy, a pre-existing anxiety disorder and certain types of beliefs (such as a need to control so-called “bad” thoughts or a fear that thoughts equate to actions). Such mothers often haven’t been getting the help they need, Timpano says, which can be overwhelming for the entire family, and may contribute to postpartum depression.

“Over the last decade there has been a tremendous growth in our understanding of postpartum depression,” she says, “but what many do not realize is that difficulties with anxiety during the perinatal period are also widespread and can be incredibly devastating.”

The good news: the mummies in the prevention program experienced less postpartum anxiety than women in the usual childbirth class, and were less anxious as much as six months after the blessed event. The researchers hope that this will lead to mothers being screened for postpartum OC symptoms, just as they often are for depression.

DISCUSS: Depression and Anxiety Strategies

“This would allow us to catch those parents who are struggling early,” Timpano says, and “get them the help and tools they need.” Then they can focus on the important things—like raising their little Baby Einstein or Mini Mozart.