Perinatal OCD is different from postpartum anxiety or depression. It can start during pregnancy or postpartum and includes frequent, disturbing and unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses (obsessions) as well as behaviors such as checking, avoiding, washing, to neutralize them (compulsions). Symptoms can significantly decrease with the support of a maternal mental health therapist trained in the treatment of OCD. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is one highly effective treatment. Megan Davis, LCSW, PMH-C is a perinatal mental health specialist trained in ERP and offering virtual appointments to mothers and new parents in North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder can have debilitating symptoms of recurrent and unwanted thoughts, images, sensations (obsessions) and repetitive or ritualistic attempts to neutralize or get rid of the distress (compulsions). Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the recommended first line treatment for OCD symptoms and has a large body of research to support its efficacy.