OCD and pregnancy - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Message Board

koter1 · 02-02-2003, 08:28 PM

Does anyone have experience w/ OCD and pregnancy? Was it the same or worse? What medications were used if any?

Anonymity · 02-05-2003, 01:41 PM

I would like the same answers as you. I'm getting married in May, and my fiance want to wait two or three years to start a family. Still, I wonder what it will be like? I'm terrified of taking medicines while pregnant, but I doubt if I can handle life without something. Please, let me know if you figure this out!

Applejacks · 03-17-2003, 03:35 AM

I consulted my psychiatrist with this issue. The problem is that if you need meds for OCD/depression, I was told that pregnancy is NOT the time to go off. Odds are we are going to need them more, not less. I was told that there is little evidence that the meds will hurt the unborn child. However, you cannot breast feed because the SSRI's are emitted in breast milk. In addition and unfortunately we are at greater risk for post-partum depression (which could be a cake walk for people like us) haha. Maybe try consulting with the doctor on tapering off meds before getting pregnant, but give yourself time (1 year) so you can adjust before you give birth to the biggest stressor in life! Good Luck.

snowbug · 03-17-2003, 04:40 PM

Many depression-related disorders, OCD included, can worsen with pregnancy. I agree, if you are already on meds for OCD pregnancy is not the time to try and go off. Talk with our MD about which meds are considered safest for pregnancy and go from there.
It is also possible to get through a pregnancy successfully and then have OCD flare after delivery, when you are tired and stressed from caring for a newborn. Again, havng a good backup plan which includes family to pitch in, and a psychologist or family MD is the key there.