The period of pregnancy is a highly special one. A child is developing, and the body is evolving. These transformations can also alter how a mom thinks and feels.
In some cases, it is a result of pregnancy hormones. On other occasions, the emotions can be those of OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder).
The difference may be difficult to discern. This is the reason why I would inquire, Is it Pregnancy Hormones or OCD? “It is so important.
Below, we will help explain it in simple words.
What Pregnancy Hormones Do
Hormones estrogen and progesterone aid fetal growth and alter a mother’s feelings during pregnancy.
- She may cry more easily.
- She may feel more worried.
- Her moods can change quickly.
- Sleep can be harder because her mind feels busy.
These changes are regular. In the majority of cases, they improve once the baby is born.
What Is OCD?
OCD is a mental health condition. It has two main parts:
- Obsessions are thoughts that come again and again, like “Did I hurt my baby?” or “Are my hands dirty?”
- Compulsions are actions to stop the worry, like washing hands often or checking the door repeatedly.
With OCD, the thoughts don’t stop. The person must repeat the actions to feel safe, but the worry returns soon after.
At Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness, we provide care for moms who feel trapped by these thoughts and routines.
Is It Pregnancy Hormones or OCD? Key Differences
Moms often wonder if their feelings are hormonal or more. Here are some signs to help tell the difference:
Pregnancy Hormones
- Feelings come and go
- Rest and support often help
- Mood changes do not take up much time each day
OCD
- Thoughts feel stuck and do not pass
- Actions like checking or cleaning are repeated many times
- Worries take up an hour or more each day
- Daily life, sleep, and eating are affected
An Initial Psychiatric Evaluation at Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness can help find the answers if worries feel overwhelming.
Why Getting Help Matters
Pregnancy hormones usually settle over time. But if it is OCD, the worries may grow stronger and lead to:
- Loss of sleep
- Panic attacks
- Fear of being alone with the baby
- Sadness or depression
Get help early with Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness, offering secure and customized care throughout pregnancy and after birth.
What to Expect at an Initial Psychiatric Evaluation
The first step in care is often an Initial Psychiatric Evaluation. At Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness, this is a one-hour session done through telemedicine.
During the visit, the provider will:
- Ask about thoughts, feelings, and worries
- Use simple tools to see if symptoms are hormones, OCD, or another condition
- Create a plan designed just for you
This plan may include talk therapy, coping strategies, and sometimes safe medications. Many moms share that having this visit makes them feel understood and supported.
Treatments for OCD in Pregnancy
If OCD is found, there are safe treatments:
- CBT Therapy: Learning new ways to face fears without repeating actions.
- Medicine: Some medicines are safe in pregnancy when a doctor says so.
- Relaxation Skills: Breathing, walking, or gentle calming activities.
- Support Systems: Family, friends, and providers who care.
The team at Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness makes each plan personal and safe for mom and baby.
The Role of Support
Pregnancy should not feel lonely. Partners, family, and friends can:
- Help with daily chores
- Offer a listening ear
- Remind the mom she is not alone
Families across Texas trust Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness to guide moms through these changes with care.
Taking Care of Yourself
Whether it is hormones or OCD, self-care helps. Moms can:
- Go to bed at the same time each night
- Eat healthy meals
- Take short walks for fresh air
- Write feelings in a journal
- Share worries with someone trusted
At Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness, we support moms in creating healthy routines that nurture both body and mind.
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy changes the body and the mind. Sometimes the changes are normal hormones. Other times, they may have OCD. Knowing the difference helps moms feel safe and supported.
Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness provides care that listens, understands, and supports. Our Initial Psychiatric Evaluation is the first step toward feeling better and enjoying this special time.
Ready to feel supported? Request your Initial Psychiatric Evaluation with Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness today.
FAQs
Is it safe to treat OCD while pregnant?
Yes. Talk therapy is not harmful, and some medicines can be cautiously applied. At Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness, safety is considered part of the treatment.
Will OCD go away after pregnancy?
OCD improves after birth occasionally. Timely assistance is crucial to stop it from gaining strength.
When should I see a doctor?
Seek medical assistance when there are too many daily concerns or if they impact daily life. The Initial Psychiatric Evaluation at Leading Edge Behavioral Health & Wellness can give clear answers.
