Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)
Calculate the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score to screen and evaluate the risk of postpartum depression. The standard 10-item clinical questionnaire for maternal mental health.
Please select the answer that comes closest to how you have felt IN THE PAST 7 DAYS, not just how you feel today.
The Edinburgh Scale (EPDS): Postpartum Screening
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), developed in 1987, is the most widely used screening questionnaire worldwide to identify postpartum depression (PPD).
How to interpret the score?
The maximum score is 30. A higher score indicates greater psychological distress:
- Score < 10: Considered normal. Postpartum depression is unlikely.
- Score 10 to 12: Borderline zone. Indicates distress that requires clinical reassessment and close follow-up.
- Score ≥ 13: High probability of postpartum depression. Formal psychiatric evaluation and management are recommended.
Special Attention (Question 10)
Question 10 evaluates suicidal risk. Any answer other than "Never" (score > 0 on this question) requires immediate medical evaluation to ensure the safety of the mother and child.
Risk Stratification
| EPDS Score | Risk of Depression | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| < 10 | Low / Normal | Routine support. |
| 10 - 12 | Moderate Risk | Reassess in 2 weeks. |
| ≥ 13 | High Probability | Psychiatric evaluation. |
| Q10 > 0 | Suicidal ideation | Immediate medical emergency. |
References:
1. Cox JL, Holden JM, Sagovsky R. Detection of postnatal depression. Development of the 10-item Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Br J Psychiatry. 1987;150:782-6.
[Cambridge Core]
2. ACOG. Screening for Perinatal Depression. Committee Opinion No. 757. Obstet Gynecol 2018.
[ACOG Official]
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