Introduction: Perinatal obsessive-compulsive disorder…is an important yet often overlooked challenge that affects many women during pregnancy and after childbirth. Compared to the general population, the risk for its onset during this period is higher. The disorder can significantly impact maternal mental health, daily life quality and increase the risk of adverse outcomes for the newborn. Despite the severity of the symptoms, many women do not receive an adequate diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the urgent need for early detection a proper management. Purpose: The aim of this study is to investigate through literature review, how obsessive-compulsive disorder in pregnant women and mothers affects their daily lives and mental health. Methods: A descriptive method was used, with a review of literature published form 2015 onward, in English. The literature search was conducted in the following databases: Pub Med, CINAHL Ultimate, ScienceDirect and via Google Scholar Results: The symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder are similar to those in the general population, but in the perinatal period, they primarily focus on the child and its safety. The risk factors for obsessive-compulsive disorder are not fully explored, but they include a combination of various biological, psychological and environmental factors. Discussion and conclusion: The obsessions and compulsions experienced by women during pregnancy and after childbirth mostly focus on the fetus/child, commonly including obsessions such as fear of contamination, the need for symmetry and aggressive thoughts about harm that could come to the child. Compulsions are often related to cleaning and checking. The risk factors that could lead to the onset or exacerbation of the disorder are not entirely clear and future research is needed. However, these may include hormonal fluctuations, pre-existing anxiety disorders, insomnia and pressure to breastfeed. Research indicates that obsessive-compulsive disorder is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, which may be due to a lack of knowledge among healthcare providers. Further education on the disorder, its effects and the importance of distinguishing typical concerns form pathological obsessions could greatly improve recognition and reduce stigma and shame, which often prevent women from reporting their issues.
|
