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People with OCD often engage in repetitive behaviors or mental acts, such as counting, praying, or checking, in an effort to reduce the anxiety caused by their obsessive thoughts. Some of these rituals are observable whereas others are non-observable and take place mentally.  However, these compulsions only provide temporary relief and can actually reinforce the cycle of OCD and anxiety in the long term.

Postpartum OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) is a subtype of OCD that occurs in women after giving birth. Although it is generally thought to afflict women, we know now that anyone can experience postpartum OCD – including fathers and adoptive parents. You might have also heard about perinatal OCD, which is similar but simply also includes the time during pregnancy (i.e., not exclusive to just after birth). It’s also not *IMMEDIATELY* after birth, either. In my opinion, OCD can strike at any time and last for however long you’re breathing into its fire.