In terms of risk, which type of thoughts may indicate lower risk regarding harming the baby?

OCD thoughts, or obsessive-compulsive disorder thoughts, often involve intrusive and unwanted thoughts that are typically centered on fears of harm coming to others, including the baby. However, individuals with OCD are usually aware that these thoughts are irrational and often engage in compulsive behaviors to mitigate the anxiety and distress caused by these obsessions. This awareness and the active desire to prevent harm can suggest a lower risk of actually acting on those thoughts.

In contrast, psychotic thoughts involve a break from reality, where the individual may truly believe in harmful ideas or experiences that are not grounded in reality. Delusional thoughts can also distort a person’s understanding of reality and may lead to harmful beliefs about the baby or one's actions. Conflicted thoughts can suggest ambivalence or internal struggle, which might not indicate any risk but lack the clarity found in OCD thoughts concerning the wish to prevent harm.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial in assessing risk in perinatal mental health, as OCD thoughts generally reflect a concern for the well-being of the baby rather than a genuine intention to harm.