Postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder

Abstract

Objective: To synthesize the extant literature on the prevalence, phenomenology, etiology and treatment of postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). A discussion of differential diagnosis between postpartum OCD and other postpartum psychiatric conditions (e.g., depression, psychosis) and nonpostpartum-onset OCD is provided.

Data sources, study selection and data extraction: All studies addressing postpartum OCD between the years 1950 and 2011 were reviewed. Data from all pertinent studies was explored as it related to postpartum OCD.

Data synthesis: Studies were organized based on their empirical technique (e.g., retrospective, prospective), population studied (e.g., clinical OCD, nonclinical populations, males), and etiological or treatment theory (e.g., cognitive-behavioral).

Conclusion: The prevalence, phenomenology, etiology, and treatment of postpartum OCD are reviewed. The limited data on treatment approaches and outcomes for postpartum OCD are highlighted with a discussion of the role of nurses in the prevention and identification of postpartum OCD.