Introduction

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.

Methods

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.

Results

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).

Conclusions 

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.

References

1. Bucholz, J, et al. 2021. Phenomenology of perinatal obsessive-compulsive disorder, UNC

2. Collardeau, F, et. al. 2019. Maternal unwanted and intrusive thoughts of infant-related harm. BMC Psychiatry

3. Nader, S. et. al. 2024. Global prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder in pregnancy. Journal of Affective Disorders.

4. Vasconcelos, M, et al. 2007. Prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal risk factors. Biological Psychiatry.

5. Zambaldi, C, et al. 2009. Postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder. Comprehensive Psychiatry.