Does anyone with POCD have children? I want to have children in the future, but the idea of it really scares me because of my fears. Something I have been learning in therapy is not to make fear-based decisions. So it’s definitely something I want to do, but I just wanna know some of your experiences with this.

I had pcod before I got married and had children. My OCD themes changed a lot. Now I don't have pocd any more. I agree that you shouldn't make fear based decisions. Who knows what your OCD themes are going to be a few years from now.

I developed pocd from having my kid. I never had intrusive thoughts about it until after he was maybe 1 and I saw an episode of some crime show involving children

Oh my god I have POCD - and I want to have children. If I can manage to live that life I would feel so happy for myself, I’ve basically ruled it out. I have gronial response, I get it for other topics other than children, basically anything taboo that gives me anxiety. That side, I don’t know how I’ll ever feel right having kids. Have either of you got this aspect? I like to think I can make a recovery from this, now the indicators of my OCD mind are becoming clearer and clearer recently - however even if I recovered the thought it would return and be directed at children is terrifying ! I want a family so badly though :(

Yes, I experience the groinal response too! It’s very common with sexual obsessions. However, the purpose of recovery isn’t to stop these sensations or thoughts or the anxiety, it’s just to sit with the uncertainty of it whenever it arises. So I think part of acceptance is realizing that if you have children, these thoughts could come up, but you will have the tools to deal with them. It’s definitely scary and part of what makes the decision so hard, but I think it would be worth it. Don’t let OCD make decisions for you!