Understanding OCD in Women
OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, is a condition in which unwanted, distressing thoughts (obsessions) drive repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) meant to relieve the anxiety they cause. The thoughts are not a reflection of who you are, and the relief compulsions bring is only temporary. At Lilac Psychiatry, OCD is evaluated and treated by Natasha Massoudi, MD, MPH, a physician who specializes in women's mental health.
Signs and Symptoms of OCD
OCD can be loud or nearly invisible to others. You may recognize some of these:
- Intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or fears that feel impossible to dismiss
- Repetitive behaviors such as checking, cleaning, counting, or arranging
- Mental rituals like reviewing, reassuring, or silently repeating phrases
- A strong need for certainty, symmetry, or things to feel just right
- Significant time lost to the cycle, and distress when rituals are interrupted
- Shame or secrecy about the content of the thoughts
How OCD can show up
OCD can begin or intensify during hormonal transitions, including pregnancy and the postpartum period, when distressing intrusive thoughts are often kept secret. These thoughts are a symptom of OCD and they can respond well to treatment.
How We Treat OCD
OCD responds to evidence-based care. Treatment may include specific therapy approaches for OCD, support, and, when appropriate, medication. As a physician who also provides psychotherapy, Dr. Massoudi tailors the plan to the severity and content of your symptoms, and to your goals. Medication is one tool, not the entire plan.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first appointment is an unhurried 90 minute evaluation. Dr. Massoudi creates a calm, nonjudgmental space to talk through what you are experiencing, including thoughts that feel too embarrassing to say out loud. Care is delivered by secure telehealth across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Florida.
When to Reach Out
If intrusive thoughts or rituals are taking time, energy, or peace from your day, help is available and it works. You do not have to manage this alone, and you do not have to explain it perfectly to begin. There is space for your story here.
What to Expect in Care
A few things set Lilac Psychiatry apart, and you feel them from the very first visit:
- One physician, zero judgment. Every visit is with Dr. Massoudi, in a space where even the thoughts you have never said out loud are safe.
- Trained in how OCD shows up in women. Fellowship-trained, including the perinatal intrusive thoughts that are so often kept hidden.
- Time to explain without rushing. First visits run 90 minutes, so nothing about your experience feels squeezed.
- Evidence-based care, not just a pill. Specific therapy approaches for OCD, with medication only when it fits. Medication is one tool, never the whole plan.
Your thoughts are not who you are.
Compassionate, judgment-free OCD care for women, from wherever you are.
FAQs
OCD involves intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) done to ease the anxiety they cause, such as checking, cleaning, counting, or seeking reassurance. The cycle can consume significant time and cause real distress.
It can range from visible rituals to entirely internal mental compulsions that others never see. Themes often involve contamination, harm, symmetry, or a need for certainty. Many women feel shame about the content of their thoughts and keep symptoms hidden.
OCD can begin in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood, and it can first appear or worsen during hormonal transitions such as pregnancy and the postpartum period. It is very treatable at any age.
OCD arises from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors, and symptoms can be influenced by stress and hormonal changes. A full evaluation focuses less on a single cause and more on an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Yes. Dr. Massoudi evaluates and treats OCD by secure telehealth for women in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Florida, using evidence-based approaches and, when appropriate, medication management.