What Are “Scary Thoughts” in the Postpartum Period?
Many new mothers experience what they often describe as “scary thoughts”—intrusive, sudden, unwanted thoughts or mental images that seem to come out of nowhere. These thoughts can feel disturbing, confusing, or even frightening because they don’t reflect your true intentions, personality, or values. In fact, most moms say the thoughts feel completely opposite from who they are as a person.
Intrusive thoughts in the postpartum period can be connected to several perinatal mood and anxiety conditions, including postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum OCD. According to a longitudinal study by Miller and O’Hara, postpartum intrusive thoughts and obsessive-compulsive symptoms are relatively common and often reflect stress and emotional adjustment—not an actual risk of a mother acting on them (Miller & O’Hara, 2019). These conditions are treatable, and early support can make a meaningful difference.
Postpartum intrusive thoughts can show up in different ways, and they often catch mothers off guard. These thoughts may include:
Common Types of Postpartum Intrusive or “Scary” Thoughts
Fear of something bad happening to the baby.
This may look like sudden worries that the baby could stop breathing, get hurt, or fall unexpectedly.“What if” thoughts that seem to appear out of nowhere.
For example: “What if I drop the baby?” or “What if something happens while I’m sleeping?”Unexpected images of accidents.
These can involve visual flashes of scenarios you don’t want or intend, such as slipping while carrying the baby or something falling near them.Thoughts about not being a “good enough” mother.
Many moms worry they are failing, doing something wrong, or not bonding quickly enough.Fear of losing control.
This might include worries like “What if I make a mistake?” or “What if I can’t handle this?”
These thoughts can be incredibly distressing because they feel so out of character. But it’s important to understand:
Intrusive Thoughts Do NOT Mean You Will Act on Them
Many mothers keep these thoughts to themselves because they feel embarrassed, ashamed, or afraid of being judged. But intrusive thoughts—especially during the postpartum period—are common, normal, and often a reflection of:
Exhaustion and sleep deprivation
Hormonal changes after giving birth
Heightened responsibility and protective instincts
Stress, overwhelm, and the major life transition into motherhood
Experiencing intrusive thoughts does not define your ability to be a good parent. These thoughts are a symptom of stress, not a reflection of your character or capability.
Why This Matters
Normalizing the experience helps reduce shame and encourages new mothers to seek support early. When women feel safe to talk about intrusive thoughts, they can get the reassurance, coping strategies, and mental health care they may need.
We Can Help
Intrusive thoughts in the postpartum period can be connected to several perinatal mood and anxiety conditions, including postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum OCD. These conditions are treatable, and early support can make a meaningful difference. At Nurtured Balance Wellness, PLLC, we provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy to help new mothers feel understood and stabilized. When extended or specialized psychotherapy is needed, we collaborate closely with local and virtual therapists to ensure you receive well-rounded, ongoing support. You don’t have to navigate this alone — compassionate, evidence-informed care is available.
Reference:
📚 Miller, M. L., & O’Hara, M. W. (2019). Obsessive-compulsive symptoms, intrusive thoughts, and depressive symptoms: A longitudinal study examining relation to maternal responsiveness. Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology, 37(5), 495–507. https://doi.org/10.1080/02646838.2019.1641191
