Has anyone ever done ERP during pregnancy? If so did it help? I just know that even though it helps in the long run, it can make the short term anxiety a lot worse, which I’m afraid to experience while pregnant.
I think that this is something I would definitely talk with a ERP/OCD specialist about. I don't see any reason why you couldn't do ERP whilst pregnant, it is really a matter of just working alongside a therapist who can help you know your limitations.
I started medication and ERP in my third trimester. The pregnancy hormones made everything so so much worse for me. I was very scared of starting ERP while pregnant but I think that as long as you create a hierarchy and don’t start to high it’s completely fine to do pregnant. If anything I really wish I had started earlier in the pregnancy so I would have come further with the ERP when the baby comes. The medication also really helps with my anxiety and makes ERP easier (it’s still hard though…)
Thank you for sharing. You’re super strong and brave! And you’re right I think the hierarchy is key.
Most of my erp therapy was before I got pregnant, but I'm finishing up therapy soon. I'm 9 weeks now... I totally understand your fear. It's a tough thing to decide. I've heard some women really struggle with ocd post partum and it might be worth working on before. But I also understand not wanting to have a lot of stress during pregnancy!
I had it even worse post partum and that’s when I started taking Lexapro. But I might start small with ERP and very slowly work my way up the fear hierarchy. Or just try basic CBT again first. I’m glad you are almost done with therapy! I hope it has armed you well so you can deal with whatever perinatal OCD throws your way!
Good for y’all though living your life depsite OCD! It gives me hope! It has put my plans on starting a family on hault for too long and if others can do it I can do it. (:
@kels89 How do you like Lexapro?
@Anonymous At first it helped A TON. I still think it helps a little bit but I think maybe my body has just gotten used to it. That combined with pregnancy hormones, my symptoms are definitely worse again these days. But I think it would be much worse without it.
@kels89 Thanks for sharing! I haven't tried medication yet so love to hear feedback in case I decide to in the future!
I should also note that I did it a minimal amount during my first pregnancy, but it wasn’t too intense.
I have not. But I plan to become pregnant soon and am nervous about possiblly struggling with my OCD during pregnancy.
Definitely discuss it with the doctor beforehand so they can help you figure out a pregnancy-safe plan of action to help manage it! Both of my pregnancies have exacerbated my OCD symptoms. I hope it is different for you but if not just know you are not alone and that hormones suck! Also reach out anytime if you’re pregnant and struggling with it. You have plenty of people who understand including me.
@kels89 Thanks so much!!! Are you taking an ssri during your pregnancy or going without medication? I’m actually going to my dr tomorrow to ask about pregnancy safe ssris in case I need to get back on a medication.
@Callie17# I am! I am on Lexapro. Unfortunately pregnancy still made my symptoms worse but I think my body has also become accustomed to the medication since I’ve been on it for a while. I do feel like I am managing slightly better than I did the first time though when I was on wellbutrin.
@kels89 I used to take Zoloft and it helped a lot but makes me gain a lot of weight every time I take it. Lexapro is actually what I was going to ask her about tomorrow since it’s pretty common. Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy. (:
@Callie17# Thank you so much! Good luck with your future one! And great call asking her about Lexapro!
Can I hear some examples of specific parts of ERP that has helped you? I've been doing talk therapy for a few years and the major issue I have with it is that I already have analyzed all of my problems from every angle, so I'm kind of just sitting there yapping about it for an hour. I need solutions and things that make me feel better.
I’m starting NOCD. I had several years of cbt as a child (well over 20 years ago) and I see a trauma therapist. But now I’ll be seeking further help for OCD and just really scared. CBT wasn’t helpful for me. How has ERP been helpful for you? Do you feel like you’ll finally get your life back? I’m consumed by my obsessions 😢 Would love others feedback if ERP helped you ❤️
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) isn't always easy, but as one of the most effective treatments for OCD, it's worth it. If you've started ERP, what has been the biggest surprise you've experienced in learning to resist compulsions? If you haven't started ERP yet, what is holding you back from starting?
Share your thoughts so the Community can respond
