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    "result": {"data":{"sanityArticle":{"title":"What is perinatal obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?","_type":"article","datePublished":"16 August 2023","header":{"background":{"value":"#FFA688"},"headline":"What is perinatal obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?","text":null,"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-f64226f34f6dc2d0bf15b9e569f233b766812709-4167x4168-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"Mum wondering whether she locked the front door"}},"content":[{"_key":"7e42b49e3dd6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"60e9d448ae090","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Perinatal obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder that occurs during pregnancy and in the first 12 months after birth. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"03854c4bb04c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f699c762d83f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Symptoms of OCD may start at any time during pregnancy or in early parenthood."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"24d7c848956c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7f770a1db6ee","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal OCD often goes undiagnosed and untreated or is misdiagnosed as something else. This is why it's so crucial people seek help early. It can be a really distressing condition, but the specialist support that's available for OCD can provide effective relief from symptoms."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","sidebarPosts":[{"title":"What happens when I call the PANDA Helpline? ","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"what-happens-when-i-call-the-panda-helpline"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-885b5eb38f693819a76ea74c94d8b89f2fdcb163-5001x5001-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"illustration of mum on phone while holding her baby"},"text":[{"_key":"ed109e5eafa1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e57a343822c30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you call PANDA, we’ll provide a free, safe, caring and confidential space for you to talk through any concerns you may have as an expecting or new parent, or support person."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}}],"modules":[{"_key":"3146ea71bb8a","_type":"faqBlock","include":null,"title":"Signs and symptoms of perinatal OCD","noNumbers":true,"text":[{"_key":"234783b76118","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"21be264e75c70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal OCD has two main types of symptoms:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"85937cb61002","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d122af4d70450","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Obsessions: unwanted thoughts, images or urges that keep coming into your mind (like thoughts or mental images of your baby being hurt, or intense fear of germs or illness)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"453268943d47","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6ebeb4aaa23a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Compulsions: thoughts or actions you repeat to reduce your anxiety (like constantly checking baby is still breathing, or excessively cleaning and sterilising bottles)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"questions":[{"question":[{"_key":"0683cf5aae25","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a7448301cc48","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Obsessions"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"a0ac5cd96af7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fbf8ab3596240","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, unexpected and often repetitive thoughts. These thoughts can feel shocking and disturbing when they happen. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ecdcf3b7a545","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"605908ee8af00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Those who are not experiencing OCD might feel uncomfortable when experiencing an intrusive thought, but they usually tolerate the discomfort and the thought passes. They are aware the thought is nonsensical, illogical, just not a reflection of reality."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"167a20bea9ea","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5b53288fdbbe0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"People experiencing OCD symptoms may feel unable to tolerate intrusive thoughts. These thoughts may then become repetitive, leading to mental obsessions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"69ac55a5cca8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"693b3edb09500","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A pattern called ‘Thought-Action Fusion’ can develop when your brain is scanning for potential danger, and assigns special meaning to an intrusive thought, for example:\n"},{"_key":"2d5b1d7b4b2b","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"\n‘I’m thinking something’ > ‘It must be true’ > ‘I need to take steps to ease the distress caused by this thought' > 'taking these actions will keep my baby safe from harm’."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"78bbf78e049d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d7ac376509e00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"These thoughts can be very upsetting, but having intrusive thoughts doesn’t make you a ‘bad’ or unsafe parent."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"52eb157f25c6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f6b133ae9a3a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Compulsions"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"79204e851d3b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"635529399ac80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Compulsions are repetitive behaviours or mental actions we perform to try and reduce the distress we feel when experiencing obsessions. "}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2f4d81805811","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bdb84e84cd26","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Compulsions can be visible like continually checking appliances are turned off or avoiding taking care of your baby for fear you’ll hurt them. "}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2247698aec99","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e459e1687900","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Compulsions can also be invisible to others, like repeating words or numbers in your head."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"65740fb920c8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1a4c3332afb80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Compulsions may seem to provide you with short-term relief, but in the long-term compulsions can increase distress, and interfere with your mental health and quality of life."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3d282076cb4f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c359bb4e2be60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Compulsions can also include seeking reassurance from other people, in an effort to manage obsessions. This can put a strain on relationships, and a lot of pressure on caregivers."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"6001ebd6be53","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dcf66adfbda2","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal OCD or something else? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"fd1ebdffc1ba","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"acba3a90f3280","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal OCD has similar symptoms to some other perinatal mental health conditions, like "},{"_key":"8b8a5d3174aa","_type":"span","marks":["995042a1676f"],"text":"perinatal anxiety"},{"_key":"2ec27597c458","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" and "},{"_key":"8a07a10e03d2","_type":"span","marks":["a1b689fa38e2"],"text":"postnatal psychosis"},{"_key":"883ee5b43e89","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":". "}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"995042a1676f","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"7610207f-70bc-4aa2-b2b0-f73ac265a9cb","_type":"article","_rev":"nDWTRH5c4NbG7Fg6KVWXve","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T08:40:52Z","_updatedAt":"2023-12-12T00:25:47Z","categories":[{"_key":"2598e704aa02","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"a5da69146c6e","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"6bf9ed391446","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c133e0fa2e60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Postnatal anxiety and depression affects up to 1 in 5 new mums and up to 1 in 10 new dads. The severity of postnatal anxiety depends on the intensity, frequency and type of symptoms, and how much they interfere with your ability to function in daily life."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","headline":"Postnatal anxiety: Signs and symptoms ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","asset":{"_ref":"image-b5392dc540ea28f84b01c09a717338a17de467ca-2500x1665-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"9866f71eb9dd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"29bb529ef891","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Postnatal anxiety can be mild, moderate or severe. The symptoms can begin suddenly after birth or gradually in the weeks and months after."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"0f8d506abd92","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"3a08e90a2b53","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"4db70c153aa5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"402afb6fe4430","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Persistent generalised worry, often focused on the health or wellbeing of your baby"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d7e8fc7f81f1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1a117d969d3c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feeling nervous, on edge, stressed and panicky"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ad4db8a9934e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4b0a6f814a970","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Abrupt mood swings, easily irritated"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f92a111a8e36","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"adee45f5a76c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feelings of dread or impending doom"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3cb157b29cf0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bacf1d67624e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Excessive fears about life with your baby and your identity as a parent"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bec32d56d829","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"294baabb39f40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Racing thoughts, thinking about all the ‘what if’s’ (catastrophising)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"12423c40b0a6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3b5a59de1baf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Developing obsessive or compulsive thoughts"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"dd5a3aef9fb6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"59976aec7ad40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Intrusive thoughts"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"25553a4735d9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c98d165819e50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feeling isolated, scared and lonely even around loved ones"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"26758d9829bd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"34ba62d5575a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Changes to mood"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"52f0b96fdc06","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"6ce45f32e168","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"583fca11c7240","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Panic attacks (racing heart, chest pain, breathless, shaking - 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The way it affects you can depend on a range of factors. Your own physical, emotional and mental make-up and stressful external situations may combine to increase the risk."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1348c15267f8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f1547c232df2","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are also different degrees of mental health decline. Some people experience mild symptoms of postnatal anxiety or depression, while others experience moderate to severe symptoms. Some mums experiencing symptoms of postnatal depression may also develop symptoms of postnatal psychosis."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7ef041d83806","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2974fac3bbf4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are experiencing any of these symptoms (or any others) that are affecting your daily function and mental and emotional wellbeing after the birth of your baby, it’s a good idea to talk to someone."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4b30d0f01184","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"977c1c3078e1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you don’t feel comfortable speaking with family and friends just yet, you can call PANDA. 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It can be hard for a woman’s support people to take this step, but postnatal psychosis requires urgent medical attention."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3ab27de435bf","_type":"quote","attribution":"Kylie","quote":"I was a complete mess. My mum decided to call out the mental health team. It was the safest decision as I was potentially at risk of harming myself and/or family whilst I was in such an agitated state."},{"_key":"812451ee88ed","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ecf977e213170","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Partners or other support people may also need to organise care arrangements for the baby if they’re not admitted to hospital with their mum."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9ba497cfaca9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b67646e68839","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are concerned about your partner or a loved one’s safety, someone will need to stay with her until you seek help. There are lots of supports available. You can:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d6040bf430c3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"488aa28655760","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Call PANDA’s National Helpline – 1300 726 306"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7c4c036f46d6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"09530ca480910","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Take her to see a GP, or arrange a telehealth appointment"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f1e49c0be3da","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"91f91775c7040","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Call the Mental Health Triage service in your area for advice"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0bccf24c967e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b2751ab6052e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Take her to the nearest hospital emergency department"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"dfad9846c875","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"73d8956870b60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When seeking help make sure to tell reception or health care staff that her behaviour is unusual and possibly unsafe, that she has a very young baby and that you think she is experiencing postnatal psychosis."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c216e997b7a2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1d3ff0fe9a690","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are concerned about the woman’s or the baby’s immediate safety you may need to call 000 for an ambulance or the police. "},{"_key":"cd79d459da71","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"It’s important to call 000 if she is refusing any other type of help and you have safety concerns."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"96a2a0537e4b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"08560b4941c5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You’ll need to tell emergency services that her behaviour is unusual and potentially dangerous, that she has a very young baby and that you think she might have postnatal psychosis."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"headline":"Postnatal Psychosis: Getting help ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mum and baby at doctors clinic","asset":{"_ref":"image-7065493e6fbcb3f89f4faa028852afccc0f6d9cf-5001x5001-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"05fc66f50c5b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cbf5ada40fdc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Postnatal psychosis is a serious condition – but professional help is available"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"b0ed5f3aa147","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"2b484679b10b","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"21588408e8a2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"82594a7801350","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"ACT: 1800 629 354 FREE — Mental Health Triage Service"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"60b60a1e1014","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"30cc0dd62c070","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"NSW: 1800 011 511 FREE — Mental Health Line"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7fc57724352a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c24868808d510","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"NT: 1800 682 288 — Northern Territory Mental Health Line"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4ec44d74e0ba","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a60190599bd80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"QLD: 1300 MH CALL (1300 642255) FREE — 24-hour specialist mental healthcare"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"efa915110664","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"48c0612ad9400","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"SA: 13 14 65 FREE — Mental Health Triage Service"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"91a1cc1d7d48","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2a161a6b4c2a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"TAS: 1800 332 388 FREE — Mental Health Service Helpline"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ba27536fdca5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"09bb1f68cb2a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"VIC: go here for "},{"_key":"1ad19bcf8a5c","_type":"span","marks":["2d5809c722fd"],"text":"mental health services in your area"},{"_key":"03df85aa4ca5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":", or call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24"}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"2d5809c722fd","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"http://www.health.vic.gov.au/mentalhealthservices"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f9953896fc11","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1fbb221c59ac0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"WA: 1800 676 822 FREE — Mental Health Emergency Response Line\n(Metro – 1300 555 788 Rural 1800 552 002)"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"56849e4d6ed5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1ea16ee130ee","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"State mental health lines"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"text":[{"_key":"1e759e905910","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b4ac516910150","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you need help now, call your state's mental health crisis line for immediate expert support. They will help you work out which services can best help. This could be the doctor, a hospital emergency department or a community mental health service. Sometimes, the mental health emergency response team will be sent to you, wherever you are."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"6422b6534b73","_ref":"e3e4eb2d-29b8-4375-982d-1acc2d22b0c2","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"d21fa6b74a13","_ref":"a9cc212b-56b1-4bcd-ad8c-9e7480e50d03","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"3e75b0f03206","_ref":"c1432c5d-d27c-44ef-a5a2-8a31b2fe1bfa","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"Postnatal psychosis is a serious condition – but professional help is available ","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-edcabb975680e1848598b04a6a7ca8809c9fe916-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"postnatal-psychosis-getting-help"},"title":"Postnatal Psychosis: Getting help","id":"-7139fc72-8f68-5e5d-a480-cea8cbfba113","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"b07d7c2711801be1ac237b496d7dc9ad","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":84},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"postnatal-psychosis-getting-help"}}},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"de8eefbe4b2c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"690464ff208d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"With all these conditions it’s common for parents to experience intrusive thoughts and feel intensely focused on their baby’s health and wellbeing. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3c394b030519","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f3096b8631bb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Whatever you’re experiencing, an accurate assessment of your mental health is the key to receiving the most effective support and care."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"21376416293a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c875b4a384a50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor can provide a referral to healthcare providers who specialise in assessing mental health, to ensure that you have access to appropriate support."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"2034b664bbaa","_type":"faqBlock","include":null,"title":"Treatment for perinatal OCD","noNumbers":true,"text":[{"_key":"e6534c6ec2af","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7248f7a9a7020","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal OCD is a very treatable mental health condition. The best treatment for you will depend on your personal situation, including the type and severity of symptoms you’re experiencing. Effective treatment for perinatal OCD includes mental health support and counselling, sometimes with medication."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"questions":[{"question":[{"_key":"a080eed8f04e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"03adc264a70a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Counselling"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"6b09f9f77385","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b0ab591da9270","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Counselling can help you to find new ways to manage your responses to thoughts, feelings and urges. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"abfb6ad4f35a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8ac9b2aadbd7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Having a chance to talk about how you’re feeling can feel like a huge weight being lifted. Counselling may bring some comfort and relief, especially if obsessions or compulsions are affecting how you see yourself as a parent and impacting your relationship with your baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"018759f81411","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bea3120957280","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Specific types of counselling for OCD like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (and Exposure and Response Prevention) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy may be offered to you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"fec90f5c7c1c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"95ac5b30c82f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication and requesting a medication review"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"88442dfcbd5b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ab6c234ae8ba0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication may help to provide some relief from the distress of OCD symptoms and can be an effective treatment in combination with counselling."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bb594fc30baf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b8d72f94ce630","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some people who have a diagnosis of OCD may consider stopping their medication when they find out they are pregnant, but some medications for mental health should not be stopped abruptly. It’s essential to discuss any medication changes with your healthcare providers."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5ef42007c5de","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cfde3429331f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you're taking medication as part of your OCD support plan when you become pregnant, it's a good idea to request a medicines review with whoever manages your medication (like your doctor, antenatal team or psychiatrist)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d9a66018ba5b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c865d42048e90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Treatment for OCD may change during pregnancy, birth, and your baby's first 12 months, so regular reviews are a good idea. It's also important to let your healthcare providers know of any changes to your mental health, or side effects from medication changes."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"724347b60888","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5c8240fa5bc00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you'd like to discuss medication options, you can also call your local medicines advice line. These services are staffed by pharmacists who provide specialist information and advice about medication use in the perinatal period."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ed329f3145c0","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"4af3f3dd-21d7-45c9-b150-2cae7e53c7e9","_type":"article","_rev":"28Ey2N6aiyTS8vMpxWQDQF","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T08:25:19Z","_updatedAt":"2023-12-18T00:01:32Z","categories":[{"_key":"3635c35407c6","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"210b86426c5f","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"b81740fa0326","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"}],"category":{"_id":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"category","_rev":"aA1fTfkzTKX28O3lLBjb5S","_createdAt":"2022-01-20T23:33:56Z","_updatedAt":"2022-02-24T07:43:57Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"new-parent"},"title":"New parent","id":"-2be506a5-df12-5306-ab62-d66056112f83","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityCategory","contentDigest":"48882a52cb4cba1ead286cefb3df3082","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":202},"parent":null},"content":[{"_key":"7a71d9fa8734","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"90db8d4c3ea90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you’re pregnant or caring for a new baby, you may need to take medications to treat a range of conditions, from your physical to mental health. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"99b76ce6b462","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"22651dda1cf6","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication for nausea and gestational diabetes is common during pregnancy. Many new mums take medication during birth recovery and to support lactation if they’re breastfeeding."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7460b15f7e56","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"73ef8bff22b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes, you may need to take medication for your mental health as well. One of your health professionals (eg your doctor, obstetrician, psychologist or psychiatrist) may have recommended that you consider taking medication to treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, or another mental health concern. It’s natural to have questions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f9dc9e8e84d1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"37b947fe2f7e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You may be wondering about side effects from medication, either for yourself or your baby. This is a common concern during pregnancy and for parents who are breastfeeding."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0f1d0c1526d8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f8d1d4c3674f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Maybe you’ve never taken medication for your mental health before, or not had a positive experience previously. There may also be stigma (negative associations) with medications for mental health in your social circle or culture."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7ab888df22a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6acb42e1011b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Often it’s seen as perfectly acceptable to take medications for a physical condition, like a headache or diabetes, but there are still some taboos around treating mental health with medication. This needs to change – taking care of your mental health is just as important as treating any physical health conditions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f354a1c56bdb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"748c70d508b1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Untreated mental health can be a risk to you and your baby. It’s incredibly hard to manage parenting when you’re also trying to cope with changes to your mental health that are affecting your daily function."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ac12e93faf77","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"41517f83d224","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are a range of treatment options available for mental health, including counselling and medication. We know from decades of research that there are many medications used to treat mental health during pregnancy and after having a baby that are safe to take. Certain medications have a low risk profile in terms of transmission (either to your unborn baby, or via breastmilk transfer)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a4b1804c1d4b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a2413019953e0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"We do not provide medication advice on the PANDA Helpline – but we do provide a space for you to talk through your options, thoughts, and feelings about taking medication."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1be5af53df38","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"252930a7a01c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We can also help you link to services that provide advice about medication use during pregnancy and after your baby is born. We encourage you to talk to your doctor for information and advice about medication. Some specialist medication advice services are also listed at the bottom of this page."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c575dddeddb9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d187761bb737","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Being informed about medications is essential – it’s important you feel confident and comfortable about any medication you are taking."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"73a89a2c0445","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cefcbd8bf986","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication is a broad term that encompasses a whole range of substances, not just medicine that you swallow."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fa5d3a9b83cc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f352b80dd872","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication can take the form of:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"99413cb14e12","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"689d02872d880","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Tablets and capsules, either available over the counter or by prescription."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"688a8ada9d5d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a3058709fce20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Liquid medication, either ingested or administered via injection (eg, an iron infusion at your doctor, or medication to induce labour)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"812cc1a471fa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"41b2cadc89ac0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Inhalants, like nasal sprays or asthma medication."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f09f3d948da0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"85f93a3931720","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Ointments or patches you apply to your skin."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"31758210aeb5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b5aca75605c60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Suppositories you insert in your body."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"06dc7208fa4f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4456468d759e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Vitamins and supplements."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"32d64fb8bc1a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e76b4a8dd0bc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Herbal preparations, including tinctures and teas."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"29027f541ad8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ece0c15f3c070","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor or local pharmacist can provide you with information about medication use for yourself and your baby. You can also request a referral from your doctor for a home medicines review. This is a free service."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"042661870aaf","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/home-medicines-review"},"style":"arrow","text":"Home medicines review"},{"_key":"65cb3f3dd93b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d0de40d0314e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c402ebfae3e2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0b633db9c8200","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor will refer you to a local accredited pharmacist to discuss your use of any prescription medicines, over the counter medication, and vitamins and supplements."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7f89f4449abd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5c84935e2404","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The pharmacist will:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7edeb61c76e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"01643f531ff70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Answer any questions you have"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e923a67a385e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"943eb4f8eee70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Check that you are using medicines correctly (eg, dosage and time of day, storage)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9e4dde2dc3ca","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"213b9e1bec2a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"May recommend changes to your medication"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2cd3d07d3ff4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"71983885c8a40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Provide a report to your GP"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f52f70bc11b9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8fae93b6e4920","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You doctor will then create a personalised Medication Management Plan for you. You’ll receive a copy of your plan to share with any health professionals who are caring for you. You can request a free home medicines review every 12 months."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"brightTeal60","value":"#86DECF"},"headline":"Medication use in the perinatal period","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mum on phone to doctor","asset":{"_ref":"image-e4b233589ba1e25e7bb521eebca29a5358a592dc-600x600-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"c0c1e97aa463","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"23c12dfd96ca0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s common to have questions about medication use during the perinatal period. Specialist health professional supports are available to provide advice and guidance on what’s best for you and your baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"9811727d73b0","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"ebb1eefca70d","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"1e76626253b5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5e693e8300230","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The medication advice line is provided by the Australian Government’s Department of Health. This service gives information and advice to parents about medication use during the perinatal period."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b5acdc552024","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aac02ad096570","_type":"span","marks":["25808176d7a5"],"text":"National Medicines Line"}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"25808176d7a5","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.nps.org.au/medicines-line"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b864e14baf5b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cc341a5758240","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Phone: 1300 633 424"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6b8d6dadfe22","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f4c59f74e6a90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Available: 9am – 5pm AEST, Monday to Friday. 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With IVF you know whether you are pregnant from two weeks, so it then feels like an eternity to get to the first scan at seven weeks and hear a heartbeat."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"33ff5e5df38c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"38c9f84cadc70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It was just constant torture, wishing away the pregnancy so that Eli could be out and safe."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4e5d01a9f5d8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0cf0620793d80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Towards the end of the pregnancy my anxiety got quite out of control. I would turn up at the hospital and ask for a scan as I couldn't feel him kicking. My doctor was very understanding, but I wish he had picked up that my anxiety was extreme and that I needed help."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d18c4857adba","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b749cf3ba40b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I had all the risk factors for perinatal mental health challenges including fertility challenges, being an older first-time mother, being adopted, and no longer having a mother of my own."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a2b29d599069","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3eab21569e9c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Despite my anxiety levels soaring during pregnancy, I appeared high functioning to the outside world. I went to the gym at 4am every morning until I was 37 weeks pregnant, and I worked right up until the day Eli was born. I also planned to return to work when he was six weeks old."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0821ea637b49","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f68c8fcd3c9f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I had always loved kids and had spent a lot of time caring for my nieces and nephews. I honestly thought I was going to be a natural mother."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f667946143f4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e24e55556da5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Challenges continue post birth"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"f4a4bc804ab0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"20f5a1d69ee10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When Eli was born, he was rushed to the NICU with an extreme drop in blood sugar and needed to stay in there for five days. This meant that the entire time we were in hospital following my caesarean, we didn’t have our baby with us."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"79a191c457b7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e937f6a254c80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Then the next challenge we faced was tongue tie, something I’d never heard of. I tried my best to breastfeed because that’s what we were told we needed to do. But it didn’t work, and Eli was constantly crying and losing weight. We had to top him up with formula, tried lactation consultants, and looked at getting his tongue lasered before we finally worked out that he was actually allergic to cow's milk protein and had silent reflux."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2eef5525a43a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8786e7163c7a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I was so determined to keep breast feeding that I eliminated dairy from my diet, then soy, then basically everything. I was practically eating nothing, and I was just pumping my milk and dumping, trying to keep the milk coming but getting all the allergic stuff out of it. It was horrendous."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"35a06d103899","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8e3aa08f635c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I didn't leave the chair in my lounge at all. Because of Eli’s silent reflux, he also couldn't lay down in a cot or anywhere, so we had to sit on a rocking chair and hold him upright 24 hours a day. My Dad and my mother-in-law would take turns helping me, as I was so paranoid about SIDS and accidently suffocating him because I might fall asleep."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"48b36ac56609","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e112a35073df0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Despite the situation not being ideal, I was still coping. I was very much in love with Eli and mentally okay, just."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ee1fed3ec9af","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cb6389ef4a6c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Then when Eli was four months old, my dad, who had been the one stable presence in my life, as well as my biggest champion, died unexpectedly."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c94b0e2f561c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"13936de212390","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"That was when I really started to deteriorate."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"20e9df729b7f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"385782f6dcda0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I held it together for a couple of weeks before another challenge tipped me over the edge. At a routine maternal child health appointment, the nurse thought that Eli’s head was measuring very large and sent us to the GP. The GP said not to worry as she thought it was just something that ran in my family. We were sent for a scan and were told to come back a week later."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ac7f76749efc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e0e1062ece6c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When we returned, I knew straight away from the look on her face that the news wasn’t good."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b2eb713f74fc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3fcb969d78020","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"‘Doctor, please don’t tell me they found anything as that would be the final straw’, I said."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"51b3432517e5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cbec0d2ebbb10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We were told Eli had macrocephaly but that they wouldn’t know until he was 18 months old whether it was benign or due to a tumour. Apparently, it was the first case she had ever seen in 30 plus years of general practice, and she couldn’t answer any of our questions. We were told to watch out for signs of pressure on his brain meaning I had to be even more vigilant and paranoid."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9d51390b103f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"63dae4fc569d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"After this I deteriorated quickly."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bccaf50d3a20","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e3b39bec234c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I started ruminating about losing Eli, then I worried about something happening to me and Eli not having a mum. I was anxious for 24 hours a day. Then the intrusive thoughts started happening. I was too scared to tell anyone."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"474c87ce1fb5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"98935e3f1bb00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I went to the shop one day to buy a present for a friend and that is where my first panic attack happened. I thought I was having a heart attack. They then started occurring multiple times a day for no reason. I was in constant fight or flight, and I no longer felt safe to be around Eli or even on my own as I felt so out of control."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3315dbbe7587","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"58a3f4c35a790","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I went to the GP who said it was normal to have grief about my dad and that I just needed time. She didn't think anti-depressants or anxiety medications would help. I must have gone to her about five times before she really took me seriously."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"539d2bb3e660","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f4f882ff623d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3600a0fe0b85","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0c74ab0dd348","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The starting point of Perinatal Obsessive-Compulsive-Disorder (OCD)"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"d2e780ca5110","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"76ecffc66fa60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"My intrusive thoughts started off so clearly. I was suffering dizziness (and later diagnosed with low iron) which led to fainting attacks. This led to me thinking, ‘what happens if I'm bathing Eli and I faint, and he drowns?'. This is where it all started, and the thoughts just got worse and worse."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"95b76ca33e3e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"82b151cc99a30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I was completely incapacitated and in my own head. I was too scared to tell anyone exactly what thoughts I was having in case they took Eli away and put me in jail."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c6bb52af9eab","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a49ce1f662a60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I finally got put in a Mother and Baby Unit (MBU) after begging multiple doctors and turning up at emergency departments and just sitting there as I felt safe. If I was going to die, I felt they could help me. I was in the MBU for six weeks where I was diagnosed with panic disorder and OCD. I started medication which really helped along with making connections with some amazing nurses and other mums, some of whom are now life-long friends. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cf7ff379b4aa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"20ebdfb530f60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The road to recovery"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"b114cd108f85","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9c556fd78947","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I knew I needed help right from the beginning. I was told later by everyone (psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses, friends and family) that I presented very well. This made me angry because it was obviously a coping mechanism I had from childhood and being adopted (I have since worked this out through intensive therapy)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9397c5148df0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"95be32d497080","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I really wish they had listened to my words and the things I was saying, not judging me as being ‘well’ because I was able to make eye contact, talk clearly, dress properly, and have insight about my illness."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"23341c7c86fd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c12683f3acf70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I told my husband and mother-in-law that I needed help but even they didn't think I did."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d0a8c77afcf3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"157c83ab35f90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It wasn't until the MBU and then mental health facility that I finally got the right treatment (CBT with exposure therapy to my thoughts) and the correct medications."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cf346825af2a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7db059e4279b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I got support from PANDA, they were amazing, they explained to me fight and flight and that everything I was going through was 'normal' in lots of postnatal mums and that what I had was anxiety and wasn't dying. They even used to call me to check in which was amazing. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6c18ae8f61d5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e43f298997e4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"They gave me numbers for other phone support services that would be open when PANDA wasn't. They also put me onto my local Womens Health services who were amazing. I started therapy and then was put into groups including circle of security and met lots of other mums in the same situation. PANDA also referred me to a psychologist who was amazing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"19436b8b0e6d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b920d0a749dc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It was a long process, but I finally felt heard, supported, on the way to getting better, not so isolated and alone. It validated everything I had been through."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"98a0000af3da","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"80cb5bf935fc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It was a real struggle, but I am so proud of myself for making it full circle. Even though I am sad and feel it was unfair to get so sick, the friends I've made, the changes in me as a person for the better and just being able to enjoy Eli and delight in his every moment is worth it."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2023-08-16","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"teal100","value":"#236D6D"},"headline":"Monique's story: Experiencing perinatal OCD","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","asset":{"_ref":"image-ebb97899f666eb566252089839f7d9f0689cde02-722x960-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"7222f3a7d47f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8eb5363caabd","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I was fighting my own brain for more than two years, trying to get better and get back to my family."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"b8310500aea4","_type":"checklist","field":"content"}],"relatedStories":[{"_key":"15a7d7748723","_ref":"ad8ad7f7-b708-4b62-8aa6-d26e12b8786b","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"15ac71392144","_ref":"92c4645b-7cec-45ca-a52d-8125977e94e0","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"c9eddd6a032a","_ref":"cc995f77-a328-4605-a11e-2250a70d04a9","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"I was fighting my own brain for more than two years, trying to get better and get back to my family.","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-76ba51d221ed32813fd9fa994917a7704f8c8369-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"f0defcbe697d","_ref":"9276d5c3-5cfb-4745-b6dc-e6a4d308da2c","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"moniques-story-experiencing-perinatal-ocd"},"tags":[{"_key":"2dd86d1ee4fa","_ref":"86acc926-5328-468e-8bdd-8292f51fa04e","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"78529f29eee2","_ref":"2df7e53e-9ef7-4ed8-aabe-1623b28de6ec","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Monique's story: Experiencing perinatal OCD","id":"-a3d1d457-2d63-5689-9730-df956fdb762e","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityStory","contentDigest":"d69704aeae39c476161eafc1347e8fd9","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":1329},"parent":null},"linkType":"internal"},"style":"box","text":"Read"}]},{"_key":"8feda021eadc","_type":"helpLine","include":null}],"relatedArticles":[{"title":"Perinatal anxiety and depression: Signs and symptoms","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"perinatal-anxiety-and-depression-signs-and-symptoms"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-ada4b459accb2163e9cbbd7006c93b1241d71bd8-774x948-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"Mum and dad holding baby looking uneasy"},"text":[{"_key":"07ea0b737d1a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1a6f299b40d50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal anxiety and depression can be mild, moderate or severe. 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Specialist health professional supports are available to provide advice and guidance on what’s best for you and your baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}}],"showFeedbackForm":true,"seo":{"metaTitle":null,"metaDescription":"Perinatal obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder that occurs during pregnancy and in the first 12 months after birth. ","socialImage":{"asset":{"_id":"image-ce7ed43db0d9f44bd8aa8a7a2e5290b3e0210d3c-1200x630-png"}}}}},"pageContext":{"slug":"what-is-perinatal-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd","isArticle":true,"lastMod":"2023-12-12"}},
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