Should I take medication for my OCD?

For moms navigating the challenges of OCD, the decision to try medication can feel overwhelming. Stigma, misconceptions, and fear of judgment often cloud the conversation. Yet for many, medication can be a life-changing tool that helps reduce the grip of intrusive thoughts and allows for greater presence and joy in motherhood. This was the case for me.

Disclaimer: This post is based on my professional and personal experience as a therapist and mom with OCD. It is not medical advice. Decisions about medication should always be made in collaboration with a qualified medical professional who understands your unique needs.

In this post, I’ll share how medication can support recovery, address common stigmas, and empower you to make informed choices about your mental health.

Why Medication for OCD?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is more than just intrusive thoughts or compulsions—it’s a condition that affects the brain’s ability to filter and regulate anxiety. For moms in particular, this can show up as relentless "what if" scenarios, health anxiety, or fears about harm coming to their child. Medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can:

• Reduce the intensity of obsessive thoughts, making them less sticky and consuming.

• Support therapy progress by calming your mind enough to engage in treatments like ICBT or ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention).

• Improve daily functioning by helping you move out of constant fight-or-flight mode and reclaim your mental space.

Addressing the Stigma
Despite its benefits, medication is often met with skepticism, especially for moms. Some worry about “needing meds” as a sign of weakness. Others fear judgment from friends, family, or even themselves.

Let’s bust some myths:
1️⃣ Taking medication isn’t giving up—it’s stepping up. Choosing tools to support your mental health is a courageous act of self-care.
2️⃣ Medication is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s not about relying on meds alone but pairing them with therapy, lifestyle changes, and other supports.
3️⃣ It’s temporary for many people. Medication is often a bridge, helping you stabilize as you build skills and strategies for long-term recovery.

I always think of it this way- if your friend was diagnosed with a physical health conditions such as diabetes, would you ever judge them for taking medication they needed? of course not! But why do we not view medication for mental health the same way? After all, it is a chemical balance out of our control.

I resisted seeing a psychiatrist for years before I finally did. Probably for the same reasons listed above, I feared that it would make me seem “weak” or to be honest, I was anxious and obsessing over side effects and the medication itself (thanks, OCD! lol).

Medication as Part of the Bigger Picture
For moms, especially those in the postpartum or perinatal period, recovery is about more than managing OCD—it’s about reclaiming your ability to be present with your family. This is what finally lead me to take the step to start medication. While I was not a mom yet- I knew one day I wanted to be. I wanted to be the best version of myself not only for myself but also for my husband, my clients, my friends and my future kids.

Medication can help you:

• Break free from the cycle of anxiety and intrusive thoughts.

• Feel emotionally available for your children and loved ones.

• Engage in joy and connection instead of feeling trapped by fear.

Making an Informed Decision
I often get asked as a therapist by moms, “do I have to take medication in order to feel better?” And the answer is not a simple one. That is because it is different from person to person, and situation to situation. Everyone’s experience is unique, and that is why if you are considering medication, here are some tips:

1️⃣ Talk to a professional. A psychiatrist or prescribing provider can explain your options and address any concerns. Even better if you can find someone who specializes in OCD!

2️⃣ Be patient. Medications take time to work, and finding the right fit may require adjustments. I actually had to try 2 different ones to get to the one that really worked the best for me. This is super annoying but unfortunately common.

3️⃣ Trust your journey. Whether you use medication, therapy, or a combination, you’re making the best decision for you.

Medication for OCD is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for many moms, it’s a powerful tool in the recovery toolkit. The stigma around mental health and medication can feel isolating, but remember: taking steps to support your well-being isn’t just for you—it’s for your children and the life you want to build together.

You deserve support, understanding, and the freedom to thrive.

Need more support? If you’re navigating OCD in pregnancy, postpartum, or motherhood, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to reclaim your life from anxiety and intrusive thoughts. Make an apt for a free intro call with me here.

rooting for you-

Taylor