Peripartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is underrecognized despite
evidence that 70–100% of new parents experience intrusive thoughts, and a subset develop
clinically impairing symptoms. Misunderstanding of “normal” intrusive thoughts versus
peripartum OCD can contribute to stigma, underdiagnosis, and delayed treatment.
We conducted a literature review on peripartum OCD and developed a patient-facing
educational tool designed to distinguish common intrusive thoughts of parenthood from
peripartum OCD symptoms. The tool emphasizes psychoeducation, symptom recognition, and
resources for care. We then surveyed 30 multidisciplinary providers (OBGYNs, psychiatrists,
psychologists, nurse midwives, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and social workers) to
evaluate clarity, design, clinical accuracy, educational value, and perceived clinical utility.
Providers rated the tool highly across domains. Clarity was rated 4/5 by 50% and 5/5
by 28.6% of respondents. Layout/design received 4/5 ratings from 28.6% and 5/5 from 21.4%.
Clinical accuracy was rated 5/5 by 50% and 4/5 by 39.3%. Educational value was rated 5/5 by 50% and 4/5 by 39.3%. In terms of impact, 57.1% believed the tool would improve patient
outcomes (4/5), and 25% endorsed 5/5. Likelihood of clinical use was rated 4/5 by 42.9% and
5/5 by 25%. The likelihood of recommending to colleagues was rated 4/5 by 39.3% and 5/5 by
28.6%. Written feedback highlighted strong enthusiasm for the resource, with common
suggestions including simplifying language, reducing text density, emphasizing treatment and
resources, clarifying diagnostic criteria, and offering alternative formats (e.g., poster or
pamphlet).
This project demonstrates the feasibility and perceived value of a peripartum
OCD educational tool to aid patient understanding and reduce stigma. Providers endorsed its clinical accuracy and utility, while feedback offers critical guidance for refining readability,
design, and content emphasis. Future iterations will incorporate these recommendations to
optimize usability and dissemination in perinatal care settings.
Bucholz, J, et al. 2021. Phenomenology of perinatal obsessive-compulsive disorder, UNC
Collardeau, F, et. al. 2019. Maternal unwanted and intrusive thoughts of infant-related harm. BMC Psychiatry
Nader, S. et. al. 2024. Global prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder in pregnancy. Journal of Affective Disorders.
Vasconcelos, M, et al. 2007. Prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal risk factors. Biological Psychiatry.
Zambaldi, C, et al. 2009. Postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder. Comprehensive Psychiatry.