Perinatal mental health
Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)
The EPDS is the most widely used tool for screening postpartum depression. Respondents reflect on the last 7 days. Higher scores indicate more significant depressive symptoms and anxiety.
1. I have been able to laugh and see the funny side of things
2. I have looked forward with enjoyment to things
3. I have blamed myself unnecessarily when things went wrong
4. I have been anxious or worried for no good reason
5. I have felt scared or panicky for no very good reason
6. Things have been getting on top of me
7. I have been so unhappy that I have had difficulty sleeping
8. I have felt sad or miserable
9. I have been so unhappy that I have been crying
10. The thought of harming myself has occurred to me
Flag for immediate safety assessment if anything except “Never.”
Total EPDS score
0
Range 0–30
Scores below 10 usually indicate low risk, yet persistence of distress or safety concerns still warrants professional support.
How to Use This Calculator
Focus on the past 7 days
Read each statement and relate it to how you have felt during the previous week.
Select the closest response
Choose the option that best matches your experience. There are no right or wrong answers.
Review the score and plan follow-up
Use the interpretation to decide whether monitoring, referral, or urgent care is needed.
Formula
Total EPDS score = Sum of the 10 item scores.
- Each item is scored 0–3, yielding a total range of 0–30.
- Items 1–2 are already ordered 0–3; items 3–10 are reverse-scored (distressing responses carry higher values).
- Typical clinical cut points: 10 (possible case), 13 (probable major depression), 20 (severe symptoms).
Full Description
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was developed to detect postpartum depression in community and primary care settings. It emphasises cognitive and affective symptoms and excludes somatic complaints that overlap with normal postnatal changes. The scale is recommended for use at 6–12 weeks postpartum, during infant check-ups, or when mood concerns arise.
A positive screen should initiate a stepped response: validate the parent’s experience, assess safety (particularly suicidal ideation), and coordinate support. Consider additional evaluations for anxiety, trauma, and psychosocial stressors. Cultural sensitivity, interpreter support, and partner involvement enhance reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the EPDS be used during pregnancy?
Yes. It is validated antenatally, though refer to it as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale with antenatal adaptation.
What if the respondent struggles with literacy?
Administer the questionnaire verbally with supportive examples, ensuring privacy and cultural competence.
How often should I rescreen?
Repeat every few weeks when monitoring treatment or if symptoms change. Include screening at routine child health visits.
Does a low score mean there is no risk?
No. Clinical judgment is essential, particularly when there is a history of mood disorders or significant psychosocial stress.