Can anyone with contamination OCD relate to this?
So long story short my COCD fixates on what I call “floor germs” and the fear of them getting on my clothing when I’m getting dressed.
I have a doctor’s appointment today where I have to get undressed for an exam, and I am struggling with the thought of floor germs from the doctor’s office getting on my feet, then my clothing, and ultimately my body and potentially causing an infection. (I’m seeing a doctor for a skin related issue that may or may not be an infection and I’ve had a recurring skin issue for almost a year; possibly hidradenitis supperativa) but my COCD developed surrounding extreme anxiety about this skin issue.
For my background I’m currently in an IOP program for my COCD, stepped down from PHP. I’ve learned a lot of skills to utilize instead of self reassurance and safety behaviors but I guess I’m seeking common humanity with anyone that has similar contamination triggers as me. What skills have you used to get through similar situations?
Ultimately I need to take care of my physical health and that requires doctor’s visits and exams. I am going to be brave and go to my appointment and possibly engage in modified safety behaviors just to get through the exam. It’s going to be a massive exposure for me, and I want to be brave and accepting that this is something important and has to happen.
Posted Sep 2, 2026, 12:37 PM UTC